Acute urticaria
Around a quarter of people with acute urticaria will also develop acute angioedema (swelling deeper in the tissues) at the same time. Acute angioedema normally gets better within three days. However, dial 999 if you start having difficulty breathing.
Angioedema can be treated with antihistamines and corticosteroid tablets.
Chronic urticaria
Half of chronic urticaria cases go within three to five years. Some cases persist for more than 10 years.
Living with a chronic condition - particularly itchy skin - for a significant amount of time can be frustrating and distressing. If you feel very low for more than a couple of weeks, or you feel you cannot cope or are suicidal, see your GP as soon as possible.