Urticaria, or hives, is a condition in which red, itchy, and swollen areas appear on the skin - usually as an allergic reaction from eating certain foods or taking certain medications.
Hives can vary in size from a half and inch to several inches in size.
Hives can appear all over the body or limited to one part of the body. Angioedema is an allergic reaction that causes swelling deeper in the layers of the skin. A diagnosis of hives is usually made based on a complete medical history and physical examination. Avoidance of the allergen is the best treatment for hives. If the hives were caused by a medication, strict avoidance is necessary.