How to tell urticaria (hives) and eczema apart: look at the shape, the location and the course
Both itch, but the rash shape and how it changes over time are clearly different.
Differences in shape
- Urticaria (hives): raised red or skin-coloured patches (wheals) with clear edges. A single rash usually fades within 24 hours and leaves no mark.
- Eczema: dry skin, redness, small bumps and flaking. In the chronic stage the skin thickens and shows scratch marks, and it usually comes back in the same place.
Course and pattern
Urticaria (hives) comes quickly and goes quickly. It can appear in batches and move around. Eczema usually develops gradually in the same place, and is more closely linked to the skin barrier, dryness and irritation from the environment. In infants and young children it often affects the cheeks and the outer sides of the arms and legs.
What care has in common and where it differs
With both, avoid scratching, washing with hot water and irritating skin products. Eczema care focuses on using enough emollient (moisturizer) and using topical treatments properly. Urticaria (hives) care focuses more on reducing physical triggers and taking medicine regularly. If you have both at the same time, see a doctor to work out the order of treatment. Do not use topical medicines yourself for a long time.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.