Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Urticaria - Hives
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Hives are red, itchy welts on the skin that come and go over the course of minutes or hours. All types of hives can cause itching. They usually form on the skin but sometimes hives form in the soft tissue of the mouth, eyes and throat.
What is going on in the body?
Hives are the result of an allergic reaction in the skin. They are caused by the release of histamine. Histamine is released when a person's immune system tries to fight a foreign substance. The release of histamine causes inflammation in the skin.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
There are several known factors that cause histamines to be released, and hives to form. These include:
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that can cause difficulty breathing and lead to death. It is important to call 911 immediately if anaphylaxis is suspected.