Q7. What are hives?
A7. Hives are itchy, swollen welts which appear on the skin, usually as a result of an allergic reaction. Examples of these include pollen, insect bites and pet fur. Hives appear as an outbreak on your baby’s skin - usually as a cluster, and stay there from a few minutes through to several hours. This outbreak then disappears only to reappear on another part of the body. This pattern can last for up to 6 weeks at a time. This rash develops in different shapes and sizes with each welt having a white centre surrounded by a red border.
This rash is not contagious and can be treated at home. But if your baby experiences shortness of breath, wheezing and a swollen throat then emergency medical treatment is required. Hives are also known as urticaria.
Find out more in our hives section.
FAQS Index : Guide to Baby Skin Rashes
- Why do babies develop skin rashes?
- What are the most common skin rashes in babies?
- What is cradle cap?
- What is baby acne?
- What is baby eczema?
- What is heat rash?
- What are hives?
- What is urticaria?
- What are milia?
- What is impetigo?
- What types of birthmarks do babies get?
- What causes chickenpox?
- What causes measles?
- Can babies get German measles (rubella)?
- What is ringworm?
- Can babies develop psoriasis?
- What is scabies?
- What is roseola?
- What are viral skin rashes?
- Does my baby have a wart?
- What is the treatment for baby skin rashes?
- Why is the MMR vaccine controversial?
- Can you prevent baby skin rashes?