Back toUpdated on October 23, 2024
Join Dr. Jen Caudle, DO, on a journey inside the body to learn more about chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).
Transcript
About 1.5 million Americans are living with chronic spontaneous urticaria, CSU,
an unpredictable recurrent condition where hives appear on the skin persistently six weeks at a time and can result in extreme discomfort.
[LIGHTHEARTED MUSIC] Sometimes referred to as chronic idiopathic urticaria,
or chronic hives, CSU can strike anyone at any time and in most cases without an identifiable trigger.
CSU can appear anywhere on the body and typically shows up as raised, sharply demarcated, skin-colored welts or bumps resembling
wasp stings or mosquito bites surrounded by inflamed patches of skin. The exact cause of CSU is unknown.
Sunlight exposure, changes in temperature, infections, and certain foods and drugs can worsen CSU
but are not known to cause the condition. And up to half of those living with CSU, an overactive immune system mistakenly
trigger cells to release chemicals like histamine that jumpstart an outbreak, suggesting that autoimmunity may play a large role in the condition.
During an outbreak, hives will come and go, disappearing and reappearing repeatedly as the reaction runs its course.
Hives can vary in shape and size, grow and spread, and cause affected skin to become swollen, inflamed, itchy,
and painful, often with a stinging or burning-like sensation. CSU can last for months or years,
sometimes relapsing just a few weeks after an outbreak. Left untreated, it may disrupt sleep, causing emotional distress and greatly impact
a person's quality of life. Now, there is no cure for CSU, but the right treatment plan-- which includes lifestyle changes, cool compresses,
a doctor recommended skin care regimen, and medications that calm down the immune system-- can offer much needed relief.
If you're having trouble managing your CSU or have any questions about the condition, talk with your allergist and stop CSU
