Swollen hives on the face: what to know

Hives are raised, itchy welts that can appear suddenly and change location. They are a presentation of Hives and may follow an infection, medicine, food, insect sting, pressure, heat, or cold, although a trigger is not always found. Angioedema is swelling deeper in the skin and commonly affects the eyelids, lips, or tongue; it may feel tight or tender rather than itchy. A flat rash, fever, bruising, or swelling that stays fixed needs a clinician's assessment because it may not be ordinary hives.

Note when the welts began and any recent foods, medicines, illness, stings, or new products. Keep cool, avoid scratching and hot showers, and wear loose clothing. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Oral Antihistamine Therapy is suitable and how to use it safely. Do not take a medicine previously linked with a reaction unless a clinician has specifically advised you. Photograph a fleeting rash because it may fade before examination.

Call emergency services immediately for swelling of the tongue or throat, hoarse voice, wheezing, trouble breathing or swallowing, dizziness, faintness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek prompt care for severe abdominal symptoms, extensive painful swelling, fever, blistering, or a rash that does not blanch or leaves bruising. Recurrent episodes, hives lasting beyond a short period, or facial swelling without welts deserve medical review. Oral Corticosteroid Treatment is sometimes considered by clinicians for selected severe cases; do not self-start it.

Could this be Hives, Angioedema, or another rash? What triggers should I record? Which antihistamine is suitable, and what is my emergency plan if swelling returns?