Urticaria is also known as hives, the cause of hives is when certain cells are released and histamines, as well as other chemicals, are released into the bloodstream. Often doctors cannot identify the exact main reason for chronic hives or even why acute hives can sometimes turn into a long-term issue. The skin may react from a trigger like: - Pain medications - Insects - Parasites - Infections - Scratching - Heat - Cold - Stress - Sunlight - Exercise - Alcohol - Food - Pressure on the skin from something tight like a tight waistband In certain cases, chronic hives can be in relation to an underlying illness. Common signs and symptoms of chronic hives include: - Batches of red or skin-colored welts, which may appear anywhere on the body - Welts which can vary in size, may change in shape, and then appear and fade repeatedly as the reaction begins to run its course - Itching - Painful swelling on the lips, eyelids, and possibly inside the throat - Signs and symptoms may trigger with stuff like heat, exercise, and stress - Signs and symptoms which begin to be persistent for more than six weeks plus and frequently recur