Hives All Over the Body: Why They Spread and What to Do
Widespread hives can be frightening. Most often they are caused by an infection, a medicine or a food, and respond to antihistamines. But widespread hives can also be the first sign of a severe allergic reaction.
Common Causes of Hives All Over Body
- Allergic reactions to foods, medicines or stings
- Viral infections
- Medication reactions
- Chronic spontaneous urticaria
- Physical triggers like heat or pressure
First Steps
- Check for breathing trouble, swelling of lips or tongue, or dizziness. If present, call 911.
- Stop any new medicine or food and call your doctor.
- Take a non-sedating antihistamine as directed.
- See a doctor the same day if widespread hives are new.
Read about allergic reaction hives.
Relief and Self-Care
- Cool showers
- Loose cotton clothing
- Avoid hot water and alcohol
- Keep a symptom diary
When to Call 911
Call 911 right away if hives or swelling occur with difficulty breathing or swallowing, a tight or closing throat, a swollen tongue, lips or face, wheezing, faintness, or a sudden feeling of impending doom. Use an epinephrine auto-injector first if one has been prescribed to you, then call for emergency help.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your symptoms last more than a few days, keep coming back, cover large areas, or interfere with sleep or daily life. The Hives Treatment Center in San Francisco, founded by Dr. Tiffany Young, is a dermatology practice dedicated to hives and related conditions, and is accepting new patients.
Related Reading
You may also find these guides helpful: where hives appear on the body, hives symptoms and causes of hives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hives All Over Body
Why do hives spread?
Histamine release is triggered in many places at once.
Do I need the ER?
Go if you have any breathing or swelling symptoms.
How long do widespread hives last?
Often days; chronic hives last longer.
Get Relief for Your Hives
Hives in this area are usually treatable once the trigger or pattern is identified. Visit our hives treatment page to see the latest treatment options for your outbreak.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
