What does urticaria commonly refer to?

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, refers to a condition characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, itchy welts on the skin. These wheals are often red or skin-colored and can vary in size. They occur as a result of the body's release of histamine and other chemicals in response to allergens, stress, or other triggers. The key features of urticaria include its itchy nature and the transient (temporary) aspect of the welts, which can change in size and location. Understanding this term is critical for recognizing and assisting in the treatment of allergic reactions and skin conditions in a medical context.