Urticaria (Hives) Testing
View All TestsWhat Is Urticaria (Hives)?
Urticaria, commonly known as hives, presents as raised, itchy welts on the skin that can vary in size and shape. The welts are caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells in the skin. Individual welts typically resolve within 24 hours, though new ones may continue to appear.
Acute urticaria (lasting less than six weeks) may sometimes be linked to an identifiable allergic trigger, such as a food, medication, or insect sting. When hives persist beyond six weeks, the condition is classified as chronic urticaria.
Allergy blood testing can help investigate whether IgE-mediated sensitisation may be contributing to your symptoms. Results should be discussed with your GP or dermatologist for clinical interpretation.
Acute vs Chronic Urticaria
| Feature | Acute Urticaria | Chronic Urticaria |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Less than 6 weeks | 6 weeks or longer |
| Identifiable trigger | Often identifiable (food, medication, sting) | Often no clear external trigger |
| Allergy testing role | May help identify the specific trigger | May help rule out allergic causes |
| Common approach | Trigger avoidance, antihistamines | Specialist referral may be appropriate |
How Testing Works
Choose Your Test
Select from our range of allergy blood tests and book a convenient time at our South Kensington clinic. No GP referral needed.
Nurse Blood Draw
A qualified nurse takes a small blood sample at our clinic. The appointment is quick and straightforward.
Get Your Results
Results are sent directly to you, typically within a few working days. Share them with your GP or specialist to guide your next steps.
Recommended Tests for Urticaria
ALEX² Allergy Test (Venous)
Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants)
Eosinophil Cationic Protein
Histamine Releasing Urticaria Test
Total IgE
Urticaria Test (Histamine Releasing)
Why Choose a Diagnostic-Only Clinic?
Unlike clinics that provide both testing and treatment, our nurse-led service focuses solely on accurate diagnostic testing. Because we don't offer treatments or prescriptions, there is no commercial incentive to recommend unnecessary tests — just honest, impartial results you can trust.
Nurse-Led & Impartial
Our qualified nurses collect your sample — we don't prescribe, treat, or have any reason to upsell.
Results You Own
Your results are sent directly to you. Take them to your GP or a specialist to discuss what's best for your situation.
You Stay in Control
Understand your allergy profile, then decide with your healthcare professional what steps to take next.
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an allergy blood test help explain my hives?
In cases of acute urticaria, IgE blood testing may help identify specific allergic triggers. For chronic urticaria, testing may help rule out allergic causes and guide your healthcare professional toward further investigation.
What is a histamine releasing test?
This specialised blood test measures how readily your basophils release histamine. It can provide additional information in the investigation of urticaria, particularly when standard IgE tests are inconclusive.
Do I need a GP referral for allergy testing?
No. You can book directly with our clinic without a GP referral. Simply choose your test and select a convenient appointment time. If you're unsure which test is right for your symptoms, our team can help guide your selection.
Do I need to stop taking antihistamines before a blood test?
No. Unlike skin prick testing, IgE blood tests are not affected by antihistamines or other allergy medications. You can continue taking your regular medications before your appointment.
What should I do with my results?
As a diagnostic-only clinic, we provide results directly to you. We recommend sharing them with your GP or dermatologist for interpretation and to discuss appropriate next steps.
Investigate Potential Urticaria Triggers
Book a blood test at our South Kensington clinic
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