New Hives
I've been suffering from horrible hives for a month now and even had to go to the ER because I had trouble breathing and my throat was swelling up.
I've been referred to an allergist and the allergist said that they won't do any testing and just talk to me. Is this normal? How can they not do testing?
Is this going to be my new normal life? I'm popping Benadryl like candy which is not good because it makes me loopy.
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That looks so uncomfortable.
Diagnosing Chronic Hives can be challenging. However there is testing that can help in the diagnostic process. These include blood tests such as complete blood work and Skin tests, such as a biopsy just to name a few.
This article may provide some helpful information: https://chronic-hives.com/diagnosis
In the meantime, I would consider reaching out to your PCP or dermatologist for advice/help.
All my best, Doreen (Team Member)Thank you so much. This is helpful. I am a disabled vet and dealing with the VA system is challenging.
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I just wanted to check in and see how things are going.
Have you found any relief?
~Doreen (Team Member)
Have you tried a different antihistamine? Benadryl makes me wired, but I can take Zyrtec with no problems. Generic Zyrtec is super cheap on Amazon, and works as well as the brand name. My hives look like that too, and can be anywhere head to feet, typically they start at my thighs or upper arms. I have several autoimmune diseases, and my rheumatologist thinks it’s related to that. My allergist wasn’t great either. Didn’t want to see me in person, and just gave advice over the phone. By the way ice packs really help with the itching when it’s unbearable, but you have to do 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off. Never put ice directly on your skin though because it can burn it. Good luck.
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Thanks so much for sharing your experience and helpful advice.
We're glad you are part of this community.
My best, Doreen (Team Member)
