When a rash appears suddenly, it’s easy to assume that it’s nothing serious. But if that rash itches and spreads across your skin in what looks like raised welts, it could easily be a case of hives, and knowing what to do next isn’t easy.

At Getwell Urgent Care in Southaven, we regularly evaluate patients with unexplained hives. If you’re unsure what caused them or how long they’ll last, a quick visit can help you understand what your body is reacting to and how to calm it.

What hives are and how they form

Hives, or urticaria as the Cleveland Clinic calls them, are raised, irritated welts that form when your immune system flags something as a danger. The body releases histamine, which causes blood vessels in the skin to leak fluid. This swelling creates the distinct raised patches that can appear on the arms, legs, chest or virtually anywhere else.

Episodes of hives can last from minutes to hours. The rash may come and go in waves or remain steady in one area before fading. Some people experience additional symptoms like warmth in the skin or mild swelling around the eyes or lips.

Even when the reaction is brief, it’s not always clear what caused it, and if the welts keep coming back or spread, urgent care can help guide your next steps.

Possible triggers of hives that we look for

Many cases of hives follow a recent exposure, a change in routine, or even a minor illness. At Getwell Urgent Care, we often trace the source to:

Common food allergens like shellfish
Over-the-counter or prescription medications
Insect stings or bites
Recent respiratory infections
Changes in laundry products, body wash or lotion

According to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, not all patients with hives have a known history of allergies. Don’t be surprised if we ask about your recent meals, travel plans, or any new products you’ve tried to help us narrow down the source.

When your rash needs urgent care

Not every episode of hives needs treatment, but if the rash is spreading or interfering with your day, having it evaluated can certainly make a difference. You should come to see us if:

The welts aren’t fading after several hours
You’ve developed swelling in your lips, eyelids or hands
The itching is strong enough to affect your sleep

At our Southaven clinic, we can also check whether the hives connect to a recent illness or a more widespread immune reaction. We see these patterns frequently and know what to look for.

What your urgent care visit will include

Your evaluation will begin with a focused history. We’ll ask when the rash began, how it has changed, and what exposures or symptoms might have occurred around the same time. If you’ve had hives before, we’ll compare those previous episodes with what you’re experiencing now.

We may also examine the appearance and location of the welts. In some cases, we’ll check your throat or listen to your breathing to look for signs of a deeper allergic response. Depending on your symptoms, we might also ask about recent medications or supplements, especially if this is your first experience with a skin reaction like this.

If a distinct pattern emerges, we’ll talk through how to avoid the trigger and when to follow up with a specialist, such as an allergist, if needed.

Treatment for hives at urgent care

If your hives are mild and fading, treatment might not be necessary. If they persist, however, we might recommend:

Oral antihistamines to reduce the immune response
Prescription-strength creams or short-term steroids to manage inflammation
Soothing lotions or cold compress suggestions for symptom relief
Avoidance techniques based on any clear trigger

If you’re dehydrated or recovering from a recent illness, we’ll also consider how that might contribute to your symptoms. For recurring hives, our team can explain how to keep track of flare-ups and when to seek follow-up care with us.

What to do if your hives don’t get better

Skin reactions can take many forms, so if you’re not sure what you’re dealing with, we’re here to help you. Our team at Getwell Urgent Care offers same-day care for sudden hives and other skin concerns.

Walk in today for direct answers to your questions and compassionate support.