Ask the Patient Leaders: Big Changes Due to Chronic Hives

Chronic hives affects so much more than just the skin. It can wreak havoc on your life, causing changes and shifts in ways you may not have imagined. We asked our chronic hives patient leaders: What is the biggest change you have had to make because of chronic hives?

We want to bring to light the daily struggles of our community, however big or small. Here are their candid and enlightening responses:

What is the biggest change you have had to make because of chronic hives?

Response from Christy

Because of the severity of my chronic hives, I take a medicine that suppresses my immune system. Pandemic aside, I’ve had to make many life changes to deal with being immunocompromised. I continue to wear a mask everywhere I go. Also, because I have a significant medical history and am at risk for severe complications if I do get sick, my ability to go places and participate in certain activities is extremely limited. In the winter months, when flu and Covid are more prevalent, I’m pretty much confined to my apartment and usually only get out to walk my dog.

Response from Ambre

I’ve had to really watch everything I use. Meaning laundry detergents, soaps, body wash, lotion. Anything that touches my skin is a potential trigger. I’ve even had to be careful of those around me that use fragrance soaps and laundry detergents. Having to rely on antihistamines daily is annoying. Traveling can also be frustrating at times. I learned that Airbnb hosts use scented laundry detergents for sheets and towels. I carried my own sets for a while when I traveled. Eventually I spoke with an Airbnb host, explaining the situation. Most have been really understanding and supportive, and made the decision to change to a hypoallergenic laundry detergent.

Response from CJ

The biggest change for me was being diagnosed with a condition that had no known cause. Even to this day, I do not know the cause of my chronic hives.

Response from Andressa

The biggest change I had to make because of chronic hives was monitoring my mental health. The fact that I need to deal with the crazy attacks, uncomfortable itchiness and redness was very difficult to accept. Looking for answers, medications and ways to get rid of the chronic hives was a very difficult journey. At the end of the road I had only one choice left: accept! And that was very very difficult! So that’s why I believe that monitoring my mental health was one of my biggest changes.

What changes have you noticed in your life due to chronic hives? Have you had to make any that you did not want to? Share your experiences with us in the comments below, or submit a story!