Hives
Emergency department factsheets General
What are hives? Treatment
Hives or welts (medically termed urticaria) are a red, itchy, There are several medications that may be used to treat hives.
raised skin rash, which can look like a group of mosquito bites.
• Antihistamines to relieve itching, such as Promethazine
Hives are a common allergic reaction, and can occur anywhere (Phenergan) or Cetirizine (Zyrtec). Some cause drowsiness –
on the body. It can affect people of all ages. The rash can if affected do not drive or operate machinery.
quickly change shape and come and go over a matter of • Corticosteroids to reduce the swelling and rash,
minutes or hours. The rash may last for days. such as Prednisolone.
• Anti-itch lotions, such as Calamine.
What causes hives?
Always follow the instructions on the packaging and use only
The reaction occurs when the body releases a naturally
as directed.
occurring chemical called histamine, which causes itching
and swelling. Home care
Hives may be the first sign of an allergy. Some people are • Apply a face washer soaked in cool water to relieve
born with allergies, while others can develop allergies at the itching and stinging.
any time. Often the cause of hives is never found. • Try a luke-warm shower. Some people may find that
Common ‘triggers’ include: heat makes the itching worse.
• Wear loose clothing.
• medications – such as antibiotics, painkillers, vaccines
or herbal remedies • If possible, identify and avoid the trigger.
• foods – such as seafood, eggs, nuts, dairy, food additives
What to expect
or preservatives
• insect bites Hives are unpleasant but harmless. Symptoms usually settle
within a few days.
• chemicals – such as cosmetics, household cleaners,
rubber, dyes Sometimes the rash lasts for days or weeks and may require
• infections – especially viruses, sometimes after a high tests and further treatment.
temperature (fever)
For most people, each attack of hives will become more
• emotional stress severe. Avoiding the trigger is important.
• certain plants
If you do not get better in 24 to 48 hours or you have any
• animals
other concerns, see your local doctor. You may need to be
• heat, cold or exercise.
referred to an allergy specialist.
What are the symptoms? Anaphylaxis
Symptoms can occur minutes to hours after being exposed
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. It is rare
to a trigger and usually include a skin rash and itching.
but can cause swelling of the throat and be life-threatening.
The rash consists of red raised bumps on the skin or raised If you have a severe reaction, call an ambulance
lines (wheals) that have a red margin and pale centre. The immediately (dial 000).
bumps appear in groups and can join to form large irregular
If you have an anaphylactic reaction you may be advised
swellings. New areas appear as old areas fade.
to carry self-injectable adrenaline (called an EpiPen).
While hives can occur anywhere on the body, the usual You may also want to wear a bracelet or disc that highlights
areas are the trunk (chest, stomach and back), throat and the substance you are allergic to. Ask your local doctor or
face, arms and legs. pharmacist for advice.
Hives
Emergency department factsheets General
Notes: Seeking help
In a medical emergency go to the nearest
hospital emergency department or call an
ambulance (dial 000).
With hives, it is a medical emergency if you have:
• problems breathing
• choking
• swelling that involves your lips, tongue
and throat
• become pale and sweaty
• collapsed.
For other medical problems see your local
doctor or health care professional.
For health advice from a Registered Nurse you
can call NURSE-ON-CALL 24 hours a
day on 1300 60 60 24 for the cost of a local
call from anywhere in Victoria.*
NURSE-ON-CALL provides access to
interpreting services for callers not confident
with English. Call 1300 60 60 24.
*Calls from mobile calls may be charged at a higher rate
Want to know more?
• Ask your local doctor or health care professional.
• Visit the Better Health Channel
www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
If you would like to receive this publication in an accessible format,
please phone 9096 0578 or email edfactsheets@health.vic.gov.au
December 2010. Also available online at www.health.vic.gov.au/edfactsheets
Authorised by the
Disclaimer: This health information is for general education purposes only. Please consult Victorian Government
with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for you. Melbourne (1009025)
