Dermatologist Houston - Patient Portal
New Patients: 281 771-0494 Existing Patients: (281) 395-7770
Katy Location

22028-C Highland Knolls
Katy, TX 77450 | Get Direction

Houston Location

St. Joseph's Professional Building. 2000 Crawford, Suite 1530, Houston, TX 77002 | Get Direction



“Dear Dr. Weaver,

Thank you very much for everything that you have done to enhance my outside beauty. When I first stepped foot into your office, I knew that my dream of having clearer skin would then become more than just a dream. It would now be a reality. Without you, Dr. Weaver, I would not have the confidence that I now possess and could not have made it as far in my career path as I have. I can truly and sincerely say you are my “Facial Angel”. At the age of 15, I had a low self esteem and never thought that I would ever be in a relationship with anyone who would accept me and “all my acne”. But now at the age of 23, I have someone who loves me for me and is also grateful to you for all that you have and will continue to do for me and us. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You are a God’s Facial/body helper for me and many like me. May God continue to bless you, your family, and your business. Thank you so much”
Patient Educational Videos
Appointment Request

Hives

What are hives?

This is one of the most common skin conditions, caused by an allergic reaction. Hives are red, raised, itchy welts. They may spread or move, and in some cases, they swell together, giving the appearance of a single, large inflamed area. The hives themselves are harmless, but they can be an indication of a serious allergy.

Causes of hives

Mast cells are part of your body’s natural immune system and healing ability. These cells contain granular heparin and histamine. In an allergic reaction, they can become overactive, releasing excess amounts of histamine along with other compounds, causing leaks in small blood vessels.

Hives can occur as a result of an allergic reaction to virtually anything. The most common triggers include excess perspiration, stress, sun exposure, medications, foods, and animals.

Symptoms of hives

Hives appear as a very noticeable rash, developing soon after contacting or ingesting an allergen. The symptoms include:

  • Large patches or small rings with noticeable redness.
  • In most cases, hives itch.
  • Hives are usually raised.
  • The welts typically develop in batches and they may spread or move.

Treatment options for hives

In most cases, hives will disappear rather quickly without medical care. On average, an individual hive will be gone between 30 minutes and 36 hours from the time it appeared. In rare cases, they may persist longer. Over the counter antihistamine and anti-itch creams can ease the discomfort until they fade. The best solution for hives is avoiding triggers. If you do not know what is causing you to break out, talk to your dermatologist.

Hives that have not cleared up within six weeks are considered chronic. These are known as urticaria. Your dermatologist may prescribe a stronger antihistamine cream or other medication for chronic hives. If swelling develops below the surface of the skin, you should seek medical attention. This condition, known as angioedema, can become dangerous because it can affect the organs.

If you have any skin concerns including ongoing problems with hives, visit Dr. W Dermatology in Katy or Houston. Call us at 281 771-0494 and schedule your appointment today.

Related Articles

Katy residents ask, “What causes hives?”
Dr. Seymour Weaver

Katy residents ask, “What causes hives?”

Hives are swollen, red, often itchy patches that can appear on the skin for a number of reasons They

read more