4 Answers

Allergic reaction to something or else nerves...

Causes of hives are numerous, some of which are as follows:

Pet dander

Drug allergies

Overexposure to cold, heat, water or sun

Food allergies

Insect stings and bites

Pollen from flowers

Infections

Sweating

Tight clothing

Too much anxiety or stress

 Hives can be cause by many different things, from allergies, stress, certain foods (allergies) Benadryl is a good over the counter drug, in severe cases your doctor may prescribe prednisone--   Topicals do not work because hives attack from under the skin, not from on top.. No creams will work.. Besides, attacks of hives are only temporary to one area, its there now, 10 minutes later its completely gone but attacking elsewhere.

If you have 'chronic' hives, lasting more than a few weeks, you should see your doctor.. Hives are not life threatening but may be a sign of some underlying medical disorder, allergies  or perhaps mental stress challenges that are driving you to the scratches..  They can get bad enough that you will 'rip your skin open scratching..

Allergic reaction.