Have you ever woken up with itchy, red welts all over your skin — or noticed them appear out of nowhere after what seemed like a completely normal day?
You're not alone.
Hives — medically known as urticaria — are a common skin reaction that affects millions of people every year. They can pop up anywhere on the body, last for just a few hours, or linger for days — even weeks.
Most people associate hives with food allergies , insect bites , or medication reactions — but the truth is, hives can be triggered by some truly unexpected things , including:
- Stress
- Sunlight
- Heat or cold
- Pressure from tight clothing
- Even water
In this article, we’ll reveal the most surprising causes of hives , explain how they work, and give you practical tips for managing flare-ups and avoiding future outbreaks.
Let’s dive in.
What Are Hives? A Quick Overview
Hives are raised, red or pink welts that appear suddenly on the skin. They often itch intensely , though sometimes they cause a burning or stinging sensation instead.
They can vary in size — from small spots to large patches — and may merge together to form larger swellings.
Key Facts About Hives:
