Hives, orurticaria, are raised, often itchy welts or bumps.
chokja / Getty Images
What Is Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria?
This condition is also called chronic spontaneous urticaria.
chokja / Getty Images
What Causes CIU?
The exact cause of chronic idiopathic urticaria is unknown, which can make getting a diagnosis frustrating and difficult.
Symptom management with medication is the mainstay of treatment.
Chronic hives can cause significant discomfort, greatly affecting your quality of life.
Medication may be considered to lessen the severity and duration of symptoms.
They are also usually covered by your insurance.
Generally, your healthcare provider will prescribe the lowest, most effective dose possible.
Therefore, the diagnosis of CIU may involve an extensive workup looking for potential triggers of the disease.
A Word From Verywell
Hives usually go away on their own.
CIU often resolves on its own, although symptomatic treatment may be helpful.
There are no medications or lifestyle modifications that cure CIU.
Hives typically last for less than two weeks.
A diagnosis of CIU can only be made if your hives are present for six or more weeks.
Kocaturk E, Grattan C.Is chronic urticaria more than skin deep?Clin Transl Allergy.
2021;31(5):747-755. doi:10.4014/jmb.2012.12022
Schaefer P.Acute and chronic urticaria: evaluation and treatment.Am Fam Physician.
2017;95(11):717-724.
