Hives (Urticaria) Treatment Seoul

What causes urticaria (hives)

Hives occur when mast cells in the skin release histamine. Acute hives can be triggered by infections, foods, medications such as NSAIDs or antibiotics, and insect stings. Chronic hives, lasting more than six weeks, are often spontaneous with no single external cause and may be linked to autoimmune factors. Pressure, cold, heat, sweating and sunlight can trigger physical urticaria.

How a dermatologist diagnoses it

Diagnosis is mostly clinical, based on history and appearance. A dermatologist asks about timing, foods, medications, infections and physical triggers, and may suggest blood tests for chronic cases. Welts lasting over 24 hours or leaving bruising may need further tests to exclude urticarial vasculitis. Eczema and contact reactions are also considered.

Treatment options at The Heal Sinsa

First-line treatment is non-sedating antihistamines, sometimes at higher doses under medical guidance. Short courses of other medicines may be used for severe flares, and chronic spontaneous urticaria may need advanced treatment with referral where appropriate. Cosmetic procedures are usually postponed until hives are controlled. Every plan starts with a 1:1 consultation with a Korean board-certified dermatologist and imaging-based skin analysis; you will not be pushed toward treatment you do not need. Pricing is confirmed after consultation; see pricing and payment.

Sessions, downtime & side effects

Acute hives often settle within days to a few weeks
Chronic hives can last months, but most improve over time
Antihistamines are generally well tolerated; some may cause drowsiness
Keep a symptom diary to help identify triggers

Home care

Take antihistamines as prescribed, avoid known triggers, wear loose cotton clothing and use cool compresses for itch. Avoid hot showers, alcohol and NSAIDs if they worsen symptoms, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

When to see a doctor

Seek emergency care immediately if hives come with swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, dizziness or vomiting, as this may be anaphylaxis. See a dermatologist if hives last more than a few days, keep returning or disturb sleep.

Planning around your trip to Seoul

If you have a history of hives, bring your antihistamines and a list of medications when travelling. Our guide to complications and what to do covers urgent situations. The clinic is on the 7th floor of Sinsa Square near Sinsa Station, close to Garosu-gil (getting here), and English support is available on request (international patients).

What is the difference between acute and chronic hives?

Acute hives last less than six weeks and often have an identifiable trigger such as an infection, food or medication. Chronic hives last longer than six weeks and are frequently spontaneous. Both usually respond to antihistamines.

Are hives an allergy?

Sometimes. Foods, medications and insect stings can cause allergic hives, but many cases, especially chronic ones, are not caused by a specific allergy. Infections, physical triggers and immune factors also play a role.

When are hives an emergency?

Hives become an emergency if they occur with throat or tongue swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing, fainting or vomiting. These may signal anaphylaxis. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Hives (Urticaria) Treatment in Seoul – Diagnosis by Board-Certified Dermatologists