What is Urticaria (Hives)?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, occurs when immune cells in the skin release histamine and other chemicals, causing small blood vessels to leak fluid. This produces raised, itchy welts that may be pink, red or skin-colored. Individual welts typically fade within 24 hours without leaving marks, though new ones can appear elsewhere. Acute urticaria lasts less than six weeks and may be triggered by infections, foods, medications or insect stings. Chronic urticaria lasts longer than six weeks and often has no single identifiable cause. Some people also experience deeper swelling of the lips, eyelids or hands, called angioedema.

Who it's for

You may benefit from an assessment if you have:

• Itchy, raised welts that come and go
• Welts that change shape or location within hours
• Hives triggered by pressure, scratching, heat, cold or exercise
• Recurring hives for more than six weeks
• Swelling of the lips, eyelids, hands or feet
• Hives that disrupt sleep, work or daily activities

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist reviews your history in detail, including foods, medications, recent illness, physical triggers and how long symptoms have lasted, and examines your skin. Blood tests may be considered in selected cases. Treatment is aimed at symptom control:

• Non-sedating antihistamines: the mainstay of treatment, taken regularly rather than only when hives appear
• Dose and medication adjustments: guided by your dermatologist if symptoms persist
• Short courses of other medication: for severe flares when appropriate
• Trigger management: guidance on avoiding identified triggers such as certain medications or physical factors
• Referral for advanced therapy: for chronic hives that do not respond to standard treatment

What to expect

Your visit focuses on understanding your pattern of hives and starting effective relief. Treatment is non-invasive and mostly taken at home. Many patients notice fewer welts and less itching within days of starting regular medication. Chronic urticaria often settles over months, and your dermatologist will adjust or step down treatment as it improves. Results vary. Seek emergency care immediately if hives come with swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, dizziness or fainting, as these can be signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Aftercare

• Take prescribed medication consistently as directed
• Keep a simple diary of episodes and possible triggers
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce pressure and friction
• Use cool compresses or cool showers to ease itching
• Avoid hot baths, alcohol and medications your dermatologist has flagged as possible triggers

Frequently asked questions

Is my chronic hives caused by a food allergy?

In most adults with chronic hives, no specific food is found to be the cause. Your dermatologist will review your history to decide whether testing is useful.

Are hives contagious?

No. Hives are a reaction within your own skin and cannot be passed to others.

How long will I need treatment?

Acute hives often settle within days to weeks. Chronic hives can last months or longer, but many cases gradually improve, and treatment is tapered as symptoms calm down.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors, directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 (Line 3). We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. Book a consultation to get relief and a clear plan for managing hives. Call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.