Urticaria, or hives, is a common skin condition that causes severe itching and red or pink patches. Urticaria patches are raised areas where the skin takes on a pink or reddish hue. These areas are surrounded by a paler area that looks like a halo. There are two types of urticaria defined by the duration of the condition. In chronic urticaria, the hives will disappear within 12 hours to 24 hours, only to reappear later.
Infections can also cause hives.
Respiratory infections caused by viruses are a common cause of hives in children. Other viral, bacterial, or fungal infections can also cause hives. In cases of chronic urticaria, the cause is much more difficult to determine. Very often, it is never identified. Chronic urticaria caused by foods is more common in children than in adults.