Raised Welts on Skin: What They Can Mean and What to Do

Hives are raised, itchy areas that may appear suddenly and change shape or location. A trigger can include an infection, medicine, food, heat, pressure, or friction, although a clear trigger is not always found. Hives are a common presentation of urticaria. Deeper swelling around the lips, eyelids, hands, or feet can occur with angioedema, with or without visible hives. A rash that remains fixed in one place, blisters, scales, bruises, or hurts rather than itches may need a different assessment.

Take a photograph while the welts are visible and record recent foods, medicines, illnesses, activities, and products. This can help a clinician compare episodes and consider [Hives](/conditions/urticaria/), [Angioedema](/conditions/angioedema/), or another [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/).

Keep the skin cool, wear loose clothing, and avoid rubbing or scratching. Pause a newly introduced non-essential product until you have advice, but do not stop a prescribed medicine without speaking with the prescriber. A pharmacist or clinician may recommend an oral antihistamine; follow the product directions and check whether it is suitable for your age, pregnancy status, medical conditions, and other medicines. More extensive or persistent episodes may need a clinical review and, in selected situations, a short course of another treatment.

Call emergency services immediately if welts occur with swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble breathing, wheezing, faintness, confusion, or difficulty swallowing. These symptoms can signal a severe allergic reaction. Seek prompt medical advice for repeated episodes, widespread [Skin Swelling](/symptoms/skin-swelling/), fever, painful lesions, bruising, or a rash that lasts beyond the expected episode. Arrange assessment if the cause is unclear or symptoms keep returning.

Could this be hives, angioedema, or another rash? Should I use an antihistamine, and which one fits my health history? Which warning symptoms should make me seek emergency help? Could a recent medicine, infection, pressure, heat, or product be relevant?