There is no difference between urticaria and hives; they are the same thing. Hives is simply the common name for urticaria, which is the medical term. Hives (urticaria) are a skin reaction that causes itchy welts.
Here's a breakdown:
- Hives: This is the term most people use. It refers to the raised, itchy bumps or welts on the skin.
- Urticaria: This is the medical term for the same condition. Doctors and other healthcare professionals will often use this term.
Think of it like this: "car" is the common name, and "automobile" is the more formal, technical name for the same thing.
Therefore, when someone asks about the difference, the answer is that they are interchangeable terms referring to the same skin condition.
