Hives Locations: Where Hives Appear on the Body and What It Can Mean
Hives can appear on any part of the body, and where they show up can offer clues about the cause. Use this guide to find detailed pages for each body area.
Hives by Body Area
- Hives on the face
- Hives around the eyes
- Hives on the lips
- Hives on the neck
- Hives on the chest
- Hives on the back
- Hives on the stomach
- Hives on the arms
- Hives on the hands
- Hives on the legs
- Hives on the feet
- Hives all over the body
- Hives on Black skin
What Location Can Tell You
- Where clothing presses: pressure urticaria or dermatographism
- Exposed skin: sun, cold or contact triggers
- Lips, eyelids, hands, feet: deeper swelling (angioedema)
- Widespread: infection, medicines, food or chronic urticaria
See all types of hives.
When to Call 911
Call 911 right away if hives or swelling occur with difficulty breathing or swallowing, a tight or closing throat, a swollen tongue, lips or face, wheezing, faintness, or a sudden feeling of impending doom. Use an epinephrine auto-injector first if one has been prescribed to you, then call for emergency help.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your symptoms last more than a few days, keep coming back, cover large areas, or interfere with sleep or daily life. Dr. Tiffany Young’s Hives Treatment Center in San Francisco offers online and in-person consultations for patients with hives locations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hives Locations
Can hives appear anywhere?
Yes, including scalp, genitals, palms and soles.
Do hives always stay in one place?
No. They typically move and fade within 24 hours.
Which locations are most concerning?
Lips, tongue and throat swelling, especially with trouble breathing.
Get Relief for Your Hives
Whatever the location, there are effective ways to treat hives. Visit our hives treatment page to see the latest treatment options for your outbreak.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
