Hives Support Group
Hives is a relatively common form of allergic reaction that causes raised red skin welts. These welts can range in diameter from 5 mm (0.2 inches) or more, itch severely, and often have a pale border. Urticaria is generally caused by direct contact with an allergenic substance, or an immune response to food or some other allergen. Hives can also be caused by stress.
A few weeks to a month ago I stopped taking Zyrtec. I wanted to get off it for a while because I believed it was causing some problems like interrupted sleep and slight urine leakage. So after skipping a dose the night before I took one chlortab (Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg) a 4hr dose OTC and one more later in the day. At night I took a generic 60mg Allegra. That was working ok but want to get off all antihistamines for hives. So about two days later started taking grape seed extract. Two 50mg. per capsule w/meals three times a day. I also took one 25mg Hydroxyzine instead of the Allegra every three days or so. I found when I took it the next day I didn't need to take anything all day! Now after at least three weeks or so have gone by I found the morning after taking Hydroxyzine the night before I didn't have a hive episode for three days! And the ones I am having are short lived and not as intense! I do still have major sinus allergies so occasionally take a decongestant and pain reliever for the pressure that causes. But I am thinking the grape seed extract may be working and hope to be done with hives after this year. Will let you know if this comes to be.
Sleep is better and no more leakage! : )
Sleep is better and no more leakage! : )
Your cause could be a food source or external chemical irritant. The challenge for you is to identify this or these causes.
Anti Histermine only gives you temporary relief. Each brand of AntiHistermine has 2 types, drowsy for night use and non drowsy for day use. 25mg Hyroxyzine will knock you out for the night and last for 24 hours. Chlorphreniramine, Zyrtec or Cetirizine are non drowsy, great for relief during the day or when you have to work and drive.
When using anti histamine, it is good to swop them every now and then. The body get use to one particular type, it can cease to function.
Let us know if your grape seed extract works. I heard good reports about it.