Dermatology

Urticaria consultation

Hives are often short-lived and managed in primary care, but the pattern matters. We review how long individual marks last, associated swelling, triggers and whether symptoms are becoming chronic or difficult to control.

What we cover

A clinician discussing a small area of raised hives on an adult patient’s arm

Assessment-led

Appointment30 min

ClinicsLetterbox + Belsize

StandardTriage + safety netting

What we cover

A clearer picture before any recommendation.

Appearance, duration and frequency, including photographs when the rash is not present.

New medicines, infections, foods, pressure, temperature and other possible associations.

Lip or tongue swelling, breathing symptoms, chronicity and reasons for allergy or dermatology referral.

Where this care sits

Start in the right place.

Usual care pathway

Usually managed in primary care. Referral may be appropriate when chronic, difficult to control, associated with recurrent swelling or when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Do not wait for a routine appointment

Hives with swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue or throat, breathing difficulty, choking, severe dizziness or collapse can be an emergency—call 999.

The Pharmacillin view

The right plan starts with understanding what matters—and knowing when not to treat.

Images are illustrative and show the area or consultation experience. They are not patient outcomes or promises of a particular result.

Your consultation

Three considered steps.

An unrushed structure gives you the information and space needed to make an informed choice.

History

We map when the concern began, how it has changed, associated symptoms, triggers and treatments already tried.

Skin assessment

The presentation, distribution and relevant health factors are reviewed, including whether the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Right pathway

You leave with a clear primary-care plan, safety-net advice or onward referral when specialist assessment is more appropriate.

Important considerations

Suitability comes first.

Many cases have no single identifiable trigger and extensive allergy testing is not always helpful.
Photographs and a symptom timeline can make an intermittent rash easier to assess.
Marks that persist in one place, bruise or are painful may suggest a different diagnosis.

After your appointment

Clear care beyond the clinic.

Follow the written skin-care or medicine guidance agreed during the consultation.
Know which changes mean you should seek earlier clinical review.
Persistent, worsening or uncertain symptoms are escalated to the appropriate service.

Checked against UK guidance

Read the authoritative source.

This page supports a consultation; it cannot diagnose a rash or replace individual medical advice. Guidance can change, so the source page is the best place to check the latest version.

NHSHives