Hives and swelling of the hands and feet

Hives are raised, itchy welts that can appear and fade in different places. Swelling in the hands or feet may feel deeper, tight, or warm and can accompany the welts. Triggers may include an infection, medicine, food, an insect sting, heat, pressure, or cold, although a trigger is not always found. Hives are a presentation of urticaria; deeper swelling is called angioedema. A rash limited to one spot after contact may need a different assessment.

Remove any newly used product or suspected trigger when this is safe, and note when the welts and swelling began. Keep the skin cool, avoid scratching, and use loose footwear or clothing while the feet or hands are swollen. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether an oral antihistamine is suitable for you; follow the product directions and check first if you are pregnant, treating a child, or taking other medicines. Recurrent or extensive symptoms deserve a medical review.

Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, wheezing, throat tightness, difficulty swallowing, faintness, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or inside the mouth. Seek prompt medical assessment when swelling is rapidly increasing, the hands or feet become very painful, or the rash comes with fever or feeling seriously unwell. Arrange a routine review if episodes keep returning, last beyond a short period, or follow a new medicine.

Could this be urticaria with angioedema? Which triggers, medicines, or activities should I record? What should I do if my hands or feet swell again, and which treatment is appropriate for me?