Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) 

For many, a diagnosis of CSU can take up to 2 years. Recognizing the signs and symptoms and sharing them with your doctor may help you reach meaningful relief sooner.

Chronic nature

One of the key distinguishing factors of CSU from other forms of hives is that it lasts more than 6 weeks. While the symptoms can change on a day-to-day basis, if they occur for more than 6 weeks, this qualifies as CSU. Because this is a chronic condition, it is important to speak to your doctor about a long-term treatment plan.

Itchy hives

Hives are red or skin-colored raised, itchy bumps on the outer layer of skin that usually resolve within 30 minutes to 24 hours. They can appear and disappear daily or almost daily without warning.

Hives can vary in both severity and appearance. See how hives can appear across various skin tones and differing levels of severity.

Swelling

Severe swelling, also called angioedema, occurs in deeper layers of skin on the lips, eyelids, hands, feet, and other areas. It can last up to 72 hours.

Approximately 40% to 50% of people with CSU experience swelling. Explore some of the most frequent forms of swelling associated with CSU.

Swelling can vary in both severity and location. See the common places swelling can occur and how it may appear.

Symptomatic dermographism (SD)

Chronic nature

When symptoms come and go for more than 6 weeks, it’s considered chronic hives. Like other chronic conditions, management may require ongoing treatment, even if symptoms improve.

Itchy hives

Symptoms may include red, raised, itchy hives that appear within minutes of friction on the skin from everyday things like clothing or even rubbing from a seat belt.