Hives (Urticaria) Treatment in Seomyeon, Busan
Hives (urticaria) treatment relieves itchy, raised welts that appear and fade on the skin, often triggered by infections, foods, medicines or unknown causes. At Seomyeon clinics, treatment usually starts with non-drowsy antihistamines after a short consultation. Most acute hives settle within days to weeks. Hives with lip or tongue swelling, breathing difficulty or dizziness is an emergency: call 119.
Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:
What are hives?
Hives are raised, itchy welts (wheals) caused by histamine release from skin cells. Individual welts usually fade within 24 hours, but new ones may keep appearing. Some people also develop angioedema, deeper swelling of the lips, eyelids, hands or feet. In many cases of acute hives, a viral infection is the trigger. Chronic urticaria often has no identifiable external cause and is thought to involve the immune system.
Symptoms and when to see a doctor
- Itchy, raised red or skin-coloured welts that move around the body
- Swelling of eyelids, lips or hands
- Hives lasting more than a few days or recurring
- Hives after starting a new medication
Call 119 if hives come with throat tightness, difficulty breathing or swallowing, tongue swelling, vomiting, dizziness or fainting, as this may be anaphylaxis.
What happens at the clinic
- History: recent foods, medicines (including painkillers), infections, insect stings, exercise and heat exposure.
- Skin examination: to confirm urticaria and exclude other rashes.
- Treatment: non-drowsy antihistamines daily until settled; injection of antihistamine or a short steroid course for severe acute flares.
- Tests if chronic: basic blood tests; allergy testing only if history suggests a specific trigger.
- Specialist referral: dermatology or allergy clinic for persistent cases, where options such as biologic therapy may be considered.
Treatment outlook
Acute hives usually resolve within days to a few weeks. Chronic urticaria can last months or longer but often goes away eventually; regular antihistamines control symptoms for many people.
Risks and side effects
Some antihistamines cause drowsiness. Repeated steroid courses carry side effects and are avoided where possible. Unnecessary food restriction without evidence can affect nutrition.
Choosing a clinic for hives in Seomyeon
- Bring photos of the rash in case it fades before your visit.
- Bring a list of all medicines and supplements you took recently.
- Ask how long to take antihistamines and whether the dose can be adjusted.
- For recurring hives, ask about referral to dermatology or allergy specialists.
- Ask whether you need an adrenaline auto-injector if you had throat or breathing symptoms.
Local note
New foods while travelling and warm, humid Busan summers can both trigger hives. Clinics near Seomyeon Station on Lines 1 and 2 can usually see you the same day.
Key facts
- Korean term: 두드러기
- Types: acute (under 6 weeks) and chronic (6 weeks or more)
- Common triggers: viral infections, foods, medicines, heat, pressure, stress
- First-line treatment: second-generation antihistamines, sometimes at higher doses
- Short steroid courses: occasionally for severe flares
- Emergency: swelling of lips, tongue or throat, wheeze, dizziness — call 119
Frequently asked questions
How long do hives last?
Individual welts usually fade within a day. Acute hives typically settle within days to a few weeks. Hives lasting more than six weeks are called chronic.
Are hives an allergic reaction?
Sometimes, but many cases are triggered by infections, heat, pressure or have no identifiable cause. Allergy tests help only when history suggests a specific trigger.
When are hives an emergency?
If hives come with lip, tongue or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, dizziness or vomiting, call 119 immediately.
Can I take antihistamines every day for hives?
Yes, non-drowsy antihistamines are commonly taken daily until hives settle, sometimes at higher doses under medical supervision.
Should I avoid certain foods if I have hives?
Only if a clear link is identified. Broad food restrictions are usually unnecessary for chronic hives without a confirmed trigger.
Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.