Hives (Urticaria):
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

The most common locations for hives include:

• Trunk
• Upper arms or upper legs

However, hives can affect any skin surface.

Individual lesions of hives appear as distinct (well-defined), pink-to-red swellings ranging in size from 2 mm to over 30 cm. Some lesions may develop a lighter center. Hives usually appear in groups or batches.

Individual lesions of hives disappear within 24 hours, though a single episode may last much longer.

Dermographism is a type of hives that appears within a few minutes of scratching the skin. The rash usually appears in a straight line (linear) pattern.

Swelling of the eyes, mouth, hands, feet, or genitals can sometimes occur with hives. This swelling, called angioedema, usually goes away within 24 hours. 
 
Hives is usually an itchy rash that can also burn or sting.