Insect Bites and Hives

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do hives look like?

  Hives (urticaria) appear as raised, red or skin-coloured welts that can range in size from a few millimetres to several centimetres. They are often irregularly shaped, may have pale centres, and can appear anywhere on the body. Individual welts typically fade within 24 hours, though new ones may continue to form.

• What causes hives?

  Hives are most commonly triggered by allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect stings, or latex. Non-allergic causes include infections, stress, heat, cold, pressure on the skin, and vigorous exercise. In many cases, a specific trigger cannot be identified — this is known as idiopathic urticaria.

• How long do hives last?

  Acute hives typically resolve within a few days to six weeks once the trigger is removed or treated. Chronic hives — those lasting longer than six weeks — may persist for months or years and often require ongoing management. Antihistamines can help control symptoms while the underlying cause is investigated.

• How do you treat hives?

  Non-sedating oral antihistamines are the first-line treatment for hives and can be taken regularly until symptoms clear. Avoiding known triggers is equally important. A Rexall Pharmacist can assess your hives and write prescription treatment, if appropriate.

• When should you worry about a mosquito bite?

  Most mosquito bites cause only mild, temporary itching and redness. You should seek medical attention if a bite becomes increasingly red, warm, or swollen over 24–48 hours (signs of infection), or if you develop fever, headache, rash, or muscle aches after a bite, which can indicate West Nile virus or another mosquito-borne illness.

• Can stress cause hives?

  Yes. Emotional stress can trigger or worsen hives in some people by causing the body to release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. Stress-induced hives look the same as other hives and are treated in the same way — with antihistamines — alongside stress-reduction strategies.

• What should you put on a bee sting?

  After removing the stinger by scraping (not pinching) it out, wash the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress for 10–20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain. A topical hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion can help relieve itching and inflammation. An oral antihistamine may also be taken to manage the allergic response.

• How do you treat a bee sting?

  Remove the stinger immediately by scraping it out with a fingernail or credit card — squeezing with tweezers can inject more venom. Clean the site with soap and water, apply ice to minimize swelling, and take an oral antihistamine to manage itching and mild allergic symptoms. A Rexall Pharmacist can assess your bee sting and write prescription treatment, if appropriate. If you experience throat tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or widespread hives, call 911, as these are signs of anaphylaxis.

• Can hives be a sign of something serious?

  In most cases hives are uncomfortable but not dangerous. However, hives accompanied by throat swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or a drop in blood pressure can indicate anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency — call 911 immediately. Chronic hives may also occasionally signal an underlying condition such as a thyroid disorder or autoimmune disease, so persistent cases should be assessed by a healthcare provider.

• When should you worry about hives in a child?

  Hives in children are common and usually mild, but seek emergency care immediately if your child has difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking, or if their lips, tongue, or face are swelling. Contact your pharmacist or doctor if hives are widespread, extremely itchy, accompanied by fever, or do not improve with an age-appropriate antihistamine within a day or two.

• Can a Rexall Pharmacist help with bites, stings, and hives?

  Yes. A Rexall Pharmacist can assess your symptoms, recommend the most appropriate over-the-counter treatments, and prescribe medications when needed — including for minor allergic reactions, localized infections, or hive flare-ups. Book Consultation at your nearest Rexall to get the care you need.