Why do hives appear on the skin? These are the surprising factors you might not know about.

Why Do Hives Appear on the Skin? These Are the Surprising Factors You Might Not Know About

Hives, also known medically as urticaria, are raised, red, itchy welts that can appear anywhere on the skin. While most people associate hives with allergies, the reality is that these irritating skin eruptions can result from a surprisingly wide range of factors. Understanding the lesser-known causes of hives can help you take the right steps to prevent and manage them. In this article, we’ll explore what hives are, the common and surprising reasons they appear, and step-by-step guidance on how to identify and address the root causes.

What Are Hives?

Hives are a skin reaction that results in red, itchy, swollen patches or bumps. These welts can vary in size and may join together to form larger areas of raised skin. They may last from a few hours to several days and may come and go. In most cases, hives are a result of histamine release, a chemical your body releases when it thinks it’s under attack.

Common Causes of Hives

Before diving into the surprising reasons, it’s important to note the well-known causes:

Allergies (foods like nuts, shellfish, eggs; medications like penicillin)
Insect bites or stings
Pollen, pet dander, or mold
Latex or other materials that trigger a reaction
Extreme temperatures (cold or hot)

Surprising Factors That Cause Hives

Here are the lesser-known but significant triggers of hives:

1. Stress and Anxiety

Stress doesn’t just affect your mind—it impacts your immune system too. Emotional stress can cause the body to release histamine, leading to hives without any allergen present.