What to Know About Living with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria

“[I’d like others to know] that they can’t comprehend what it’s like until they have it.” - Carmen

People may not always be able to know what living with urticaria is really like, butlearning more about chronic hivescan help encourage understanding and awareness.

“I know how to take care of myself, not by putting myself on excursions that will wind up taking me out of the game. I just want the understanding - that I’m not ducking out or avoiding anyone. I’m just trying to take care of myself.” - Karen M.

From knowing when it’s time to “sit out” tocrafting a healthier diet, taking charge of your health is something to be proud of!

“It’s not just an itch.” “It’s not an allergy.” “The anxiety and the fear never go away.” -Lesley-Ann, Inez, Emily

For those caring for someone with urticaria,it’s important to know the basics about hives- to be more understanding of the condition, and how you can show support.

“Just because I have learned to cope doesn’t make me OK.” "Even coping gets exhausting.” - Tina, Kerry

As with any chronic condition, coping can be one of the hardest obstacles to overcome. Leaning on the love, care, andsupport of others and dedicated organizationscan make all the difference in living more positively with urticaria.

“How unpredictable it can be! Even simple things like using hands to wash hair, chores like washing up, and things like walking can be painful - things most people can do without any bother.” -Erin

For relief from day to day pain caused by flare-ups, there are someknown home remedies and lifestyle tipsthat may help.

“It’s life changing! There is always uncertainty about what tomorrow will be like.” -Karen Y.

When living with CSU, anxiety about the next flare up can become a common occurrence. One of the best things a person can do is不要让焦虑hold them back from life. Staying positive with CSU is about learning toembrace the uncertainty, and enjoy the good moments at hand.

[I want them to know] That it is real and often debilitating. I’ve just been told I have too much time off work, and that’s from a boss who used to suffer from it!” -Keri

Treating and managing chronic urticaria is no simple or easy task. Butfinding the best course of therapyfor your skin can help minimize time away from work, life, and the things you enjoy.

“The feeling of being allergic to yourself.” -Robert

Many, but not all cases ofhives and swellingare caused by the release of histamine in the body - causing an allergic reaction. Itching, swelling and pain for extended periods of time can feel like the body is attacking itself.

“[Urticaria is] constantly on your mind...always wondering if you will wake up and it’s back. [But also] Trying to stay positive and enjoy the good days!” -Robert

A hives flare up can happen at any time, even after a person has been in a time of remission from chronic hives. There are, however, things one can do tominimize the chance of a flare up.