Hives (also called urticaria) are a common skin rash that often settles on its own within a few days. In many cases, it can be managed at home without needing medical treatment.

The main symptom is an itchy rash that may:
• appear as raised bumps or patches of different shapes and sizes
• show up anywhere on the body
• affect one area or spread more widely
• feel itchy, but can also sting or burn
• look pink or red on lighter skin, while on darker skin the colour may be less noticeable

Hives can come and go quickly, sometimes changing shape or location over a short period of time.

If you’re unsure whether a rash is hives, it’s important to consider other possible causes, especially in babies and children.

A pharmacist can often help by recommending antihistamines to relieve symptoms. However, these may not be suitable for everyone, particularly young children or people with certain long-term conditions, so it’s important to check before use.