Hives
Definition
Hives is an allergic skin reaction causing localized redness, swelling, and itching.
Description
Hives is a reaction of the body's immune system that causes areas of the skin to swell, itch, and become reddened (wheals). When the reaction is limited to small areas of the skin, it is called urticaria. Involvement of larger areas, such as whole sections of a limb, is called angioedema.
Demographics
Many children and adults experience hives at various times during their lives. As hives is not a reportable event, no accurate prevalence statistics are available.
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