Urticaria (Hives)
Chronic Urticaria Diagnosis and Treatment in London
Urticaria (hives) is a common condition causing itchy, raised wheals on the skin. It may occur suddenly (acute urticaria) or persist for more than six weeks (chronic urticaria), significantly affecting quality of life, sleep and daily functioning.
UCARE & ACARE Accredited Centre of Excellence
The London Allergy and Immunology Centre is recognised as a UCARE (Urticaria Centre of Reference and Excellence) and ACARE (Angioedema Centre of Reference and Excellence) accredited centre.
These international accreditations, supported by EAACI (European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology), recognise clinics that provide:
- ✔ Specialist expertise in urticaria and angioedema
- ✔ Evidence-based diagnosis and treatment pathways
- ✔ Access to advanced therapies including biologics
- ✔ Participation in international research and guideline development
Urticaria (hives) presenting as raised, itchy wheals on the skin.
What is Urticaria?
Urticaria occurs due to mast cell activation in the skin, leading to histamine release. This results in swelling, redness and intense itching. Individual lesions usually resolve within 24 hours but can recur in different areas.
Monitoring Urticaria Control (CRUSE Score)
The CRUSE (Chronic Urticaria Self-Evaluation) score is a validated tool used to assess how well urticaria is controlled over time.
✔ Helps guide treatment decisions
✔ Used in specialist urticaria centres worldwide
✔ Complements UAS7 scoring in clinical practice
Patients may be asked to complete symptom scoring tools during follow-up to monitor response to treatment and adjust therapy accordingly.
Types of Urticaria
Acute Urticaria
Short-term episodes often linked to infections, foods or medications.
Chronic Urticaria
Persistent symptoms lasting more than 6 weeks, often without clear trigger.
Inducible Urticaria
Triggered by cold, heat, pressure or scratching (dermatographism).
Symptoms of Urticaria
✔ Swelling of skin (hives)
✔ Angioedema (lips, eyelids, face)
✔ Symptoms that appear and disappear within hours
✔ Worsening with stress, heat or pressure
Treatment for Chronic Urticaria
Antihistamines
First-line treatment, often at increased doses for chronic symptoms.
Biologic Therapy
Omalizumab is highly effective for patients with severe chronic urticaria.
Trigger Management
Identifying aggravating factors such as NSAIDs, stress or infections.
Book a Urticaria Specialist Consultation
Expert diagnosis and treatment of chronic urticaria, angioedema and complex allergic conditions.