Hives
Why it happens: Hives, also known as urticaria, are caused by an immediate allergic reaction to substances like insect stings, pet dander, or certain foods, though an exact trigger may not always be easy to identify.
Symptoms and treatments: Itchy, red welts that appear along the limbs, chest or face soon after exposure to a trigger. Though hives themselves aren’t especially dangerous, they can sometimes accompany a more severe and life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Acute hives tend to fade away on their own within hours or days, but some people can have chronic episodes that can last longer than six weeks. Antihistamines are commonly used to treat or prevent hives, and steroids may be used for more serious or chronic cases.
