What are the symptoms of urticaria (hives)?
Swellings, known as wheals, appear on the skin as a rash. They are usually pink or red and have an oval or round shape, and range from a few millimeters in diameter to a several inches. They can be extremely itchy. The wheals may be surrounded by a red flare. The wheals usually occur in batches, and frequently appear on the face or the extremities (arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, and toes). In most cases a welt will disappear after a few hours, but me be replaced by new ones. They can appear on just one part of the body, or several parts. In the majority of cases symptoms are present for no more than 8 to 12 hours, and rarely continue for more than 24 hours. However, with some patients the problems may continue for quite a few days, and even several months. Anaphylaxis Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. The patient can have serious breathing difficulties, and can even lose consciousness and die if not treated quickly. The allergic reaction may involve the whole body. Anaphyla
