Urticaria (a.k.a. Hives)

What is it?

Commonly referred to as hives, urticaria is a type of skin rash characterized by red, itchy, smoothly elevated areas of the skin, often with a blanched center.

Symptoms

Hives often itch, but may also burn or sting. They vary in size, ranging from a few millimeters in width to several inches, and may join together to form larger afflicted areas known as plaques. Hives may develop anywhere on the body, and can last for hours or up to several days before disappearing.

Causes

Urticaria is caused by an allergic reaction to allergens in foods, medicines, insect stings, or exposure to sunlight, and manifest as hives.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of urticaria is based on the presence and severity of the symptoms listed above.

sources: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chronic-hives/DS00980\

https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/hives-urticaria.html