constituting or forming a large number; numerous: many people. noting each one of a large number (usually followed by a or an): For many a day it rained. a large or considerable number of persons or things: A good many of the beggars were blind. the many, the greater part of humankind. many persons or things: Many of the beggars were blind.
Hives and angioedema can be caused by: 1  Foods. Many foods can trigger reactions in people with sensitivities. 2  Medications. Almost any medication may cause hives or angioedema. 3  Common allergens. Other substances that can cause hives and angioedema include pollen, animal dander, latex and insect stings.  Environmental factors.
1 The most common causes are foods, medicines, latex or infections. 2  Insect bites and internal disease may also be responsible. 3  The most common foods that cause hives are nuts, chocolate, fish, tomatoes, eggs, fresh berries, soya, wheat and milk. 4  Fresh foods cause hives more often than cooked foods. Chronic urticaria: Hives or swelling lasting more than six weeks. 2  The cause of this type of hives is usually more difficult to identify than those causing acute urticaria. 3  The causes can be similar to those of acute urticaria but can also include autoimmunity, chronic infections, hormonal disorders and malignancy.