Urticaria
Treatment may not be needed if the hives are mild. They may disappear on their own. To reduce itching and swelling:
If your reaction is severe, especially if the swelling involves your throat, you may require an emergency shot of epinephrine (adrenaline) or steroids. Hives in the throat can block your airway, making it difficult to breathe.
Hives may be uncomfortable, but they generally are harmless and disappear on their own. In most cases, the exact cause of hives cannot be identified.
Call 911 or your local emergency number if you have:
Call your health care provider if the hives are severe, uncomfortable, and do not respond to self-care measures.
Amar SM. Uticaria. Prim Care. March 1, 2008; 35(1): 141-57, vii-viii.
Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.