Angioedema
Around half of people with chronic (persistent) urticaria and a quarter of people with acute (short-term) urticaria also get a related condition called angioedema.
Angioedema is swelling in the deeper layers of the skin, usually in the eyelids, lips and sometimes the mouth, although it can occur anywhere.
The swelling is often severe and is caused by a build-up of fluid. The symptoms of angioedema can affect any part of the body, but they usually affect the:
- eyes
- lips
- genitals
- hands
- feet
The swelling often appears suddenly, and is much more severe than normal hives (nettle rash). It usually lasts for one to three days.
As well as visible swellings, angioedema can cause some or all of the following symptoms:
- a burning hot or painful feeling in the swollen areas
- swelling of the inside of the throat, the air tubes in the lungs and the tongue, making breathing difficult.
- swelling of the transparent layer of cells that cover the white part of the eye (the conjunctiva), which affects vision
Medication, such as antihistamines and steroid tablets (oral corticosteroids) can be used to relieve the swelling.
Steroid injections may be needed for more severe cases of angioedema, where a person has breathing difficulties. These are usually administered in hospitals or specialist clinics by an allergy or immune system specialist.
Read about the treatment of angioedema.
Emotional impact of chronic urticaria
Living with any long-term condition can sometimes be upsetting. For many people, chronic urticaria can have a considerable negative impact on their quality of life and mood.
Having to live with itchy skin can be particularly upsetting.
One study found that the condition can have the same negative impact as heart disease.
The same study found that one in seven people with chronic urticaria had some sort of psychological or emotional problem, such as stress, anxiety or depression.
Contact your GP if your urticaria is getting you down. Effective treatments are available to help improve symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.
Talking to friends and family can also help improve feelings of isolation and help you cope better with your condition.
Read about how talking to others can help.
