Hives are itchy, red bumps that develop on the skin.  They can vary from being small to quite large.  One of the most distinguishing characteristics of a hive is that it will be transient.  You may notice that you have one on your arm and if you look at your arm a few hours later, your arm will look perfectly clear and it will look like nothing ever even happened.  Each spot will last no longer than a day.  You may notice that the spots travel; you may notice a bunch on your legs and a few hours later, you notice them on your back.  Hives can occur for a few different reasons.  If they are short-term (lasting for a few days-few weeks), it may be from a viral illness, food, insect bite, or medication.  If it lasts for longer, it is sometimes a sign of something else going on with your body and it’s manifesting with hives.  Sometimes, there is no clear trigger.  The first-line therapy is an antihistamine (Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc) and sometimes people may have to take it a few times a day.  If you are suffering from hives, don’t delay and come see us today so you can stop scratching and get through the day!

Author Ambka S. Ambka is a PA here at Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center of LI. She specializes in allergy and immunology conditions.