What should you know about hives on chest?

Hives are temporary swelling in the upper skin. On the chest they may be triggered by heat, sweat, exercise, pressure from a bra or strap, a new detergent, skin product, medicine or infection. Colour can be subtle on brown or dark skin, so feel for smooth raised areas and notice whether a mark fades as another appears. A rash that remains in one place, scales, cracks or is tender is not a typical moving welt and should be checked.

Hives can occur with deeper swelling around the lips, eyelids or throat, known as angioedema. Keep a simple record of exposures and take a clear photograph during a flare.

Cool the chest with a clean damp cloth, avoid hot showers and wear loose, soft clothing. Stop a newly introduced fragranced product until a clinician or pharmacist helps you decide whether it matters. Do not scratch or layer several medicated creams without advice. An oral antihistamine may help some people; use only a suitable product as directed, especially if you take other medicines or have a health condition. Read about Hives and Antihistamine Treatment.

Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, wheezing, throat tightness, faintness, or swelling of the tongue or throat. Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading hives with facial swelling or vomiting after a possible trigger. Book a medical assessment if attacks recur, disturb sleep, or leave pain, bruising or persistent colour change.

Could heat, pressure, a product or medicine be involved? How can I distinguish hives from another chest rash? What should I do if swelling reaches my face or throat?