Relieve sudden skin irritation with expert care at Curated Dermatology. Hives, also known as urticaria, can appear as itchy, raised welts that vary in size and shape. These outbreaks may be triggered by allergies, stress, or unknown causes. Dr. Tanvi Patel offers thoughtful, personalized dermatologic evaluation to identify the cause and guide you toward lasting relief.
What are hives?
Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on your skin. These raised bumps often develop suddenly and may shift in shape, size, and location over time. While some hives resolve quickly, others may persist or recur for weeks or months. They can be triggered by allergens, medications, infections, or even temperature changes. In some cases, no clear cause is identified. Dr. Patel provides expert evaluation to determine the source and recommend appropriate management for your unique presentation.
Common signs & symptoms of hives:
- Raised, red or skin-colored welts
- Itching or burning sensation
- Welts that vary in size and shape
- Swelling around the eyes, lips, or throat (in some cases)
- Welts that come and go within hours
- Skin reactions triggered by heat, cold, pressure, or allergens
- Flare-ups that recur over days or weeks
The long-term impact of untreated hives
While some cases of hives are short-lived and resolve on their own, chronic or recurrent hives can significantly impact your life. Persistent itching, discomfort, and unpredictable flare-ups can interfere with your sleep, work, and emotional well-being. Without treatment, the condition may become more difficult to manage over time, especially if the underlying trigger isn’t addressed. Long-term hives may also signal an underlying health concern that requires attention.
Left untreated, hives can lead to:
- Ongoing physical discomfort and disrupted daily activities
- Emotional distress, anxiety, or depression
- Skin damage from frequent scratching
- Difficulty identifying and avoiding triggers
- Delayed diagnosis of an underlying allergic or autoimmune condition
How are hives managed & treated?
When you visit Curated Dermatology for hives, Dr. Patel will begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand your symptoms, triggers, and medical history. She’ll examine the affected areas, ask about recent exposures, and may recommend further testing if needed to rule out underlying allergies or autoimmune causes. This thoughtful consultation helps identify whether your hives are acute or chronic and sets the foundation for targeted care.
Once the root cause of hives is better understood, Dr. Patel will tailor a management plan to relieve your symptoms and prevent flare-ups. The treatment for hives often focuses on calming inflammation, minimizing itchiness, and reducing the frequency of outbreaks. If your hives are ongoing, she’ll work closely with you to monitor progress and adjust your care plan as needed.
Medical dermatology, curated just for you
Dr. Tanvi Patel, our board-certified dermatologist with advanced expertise in medical skin conditions, is dedicated to helping you find lasting relief from hives. At Curated Dermatology, your care is thoughtfully tailored to your skin, your symptoms, and your lifestyle. With expert evaluation and guidance, you’ll receive the personalized treatment you deserve. Schedule your consultation for hives in Bridgewater, NJ, and experience expert care curated just for you.
