Hives, or a hives rash, can be caused by allergies, viral or bacterial infections, heat, cold, or tight clothing. They are raised, itchy, red welts that appear quickly and can change shape and position. Allergens, medications, and infections can trigger hives, and they can appear anywhere on the body. In some cases, the cause of hives cannot be determined.
A hives rash, also known as hives, is most often associated with an allergic reaction, and in many chronic cases, allergies are responsible. There are other possible causes, and short-lived hive attacks are often caused by viral or bacterial infections. Heat, cold, or constriction from tight clothing or jewelry could irritate the skin and cause hives to form. Hives could also be a symptom of medical conditions such as thyroid, kidney, or liver dysfunction, and chronic cases should receive medical attention to determine the cause.
The hives are raised, itchy, red welts on the skin. These bruises often appear in clusters, and while they can appear anywhere on the body, they are often seen on the face and extremities. The hives appear quickly, and individual bruises may disappear quickly as new ones form, making the hives rash appear to change shape and position. Bruises occur when the capillaries just under the skin leak fluid, causing the region to swell and swell.
Allergic reactions commonly cause hives. When an allergen is introduced into an allergy sufferer, the body responds by producing histamines. These histamines trigger capillary leakage which causes bruising.
Allergy sufferers are exposed to allergens through ingestion, inhalation or skin contact. Medications such as antibiotics, pain relievers and anticonvulsants are all potential allergens. Foods like nuts and shellfish are closely associated with allergies, but nearly any food has the potential to trigger allergic reactions, including a skin rash. Pollen, mold and animal dander can cause similar results when inhaled. Examples of exposure through skin contact include animal bites and scratches or plant handling.
Another likely cause of hives is infection. Viral, bacterial and fungal infections could be responsible for producing a hives rash. Parasites such as pinworms and giardia can also cause hives.
Heat and perspiration can cause skin irritation, resulting in hives. Tight clothing and jewelry can constrict skin and trap sweat, with similar results. Cold temperatures can also irritate the skin, and cold heat is likely to produce hives.
Many sources of hives cause irritation directly on exposed skin. Hives can appear anywhere on the body, but rashes are especially likely on exposed skin on the face and extremities. The location of the eruption could offer a clue as to its source.
Often, a definitive cause of a rash cannot be found. Experts agree that viral infection is usually the most likely cause of these cases, especially when the rash spreads to other patients within a short time. Other common causes such as allergens, molds, and heat, while less likely, shouldn’t be ruled out when trying to identify the source of the hives rash.
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