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.
I have had what we now know is chronic idiopathic urticaria for 19 months. Every time it seems to be under control and I wean off a couple of my meds, it comes back. I currently take the following daily: 2 Zyrtec, 1 Allegra, 2 Ranitidine (Zantac), and 50 to 75 mg of Atarax depending on degree of itch. I haven’t gotten past weaning off below 4 pills a day before it comes back. I just started Xolair and am very hopeful that I am one of those that it helps.
I know that NSAIDs are a trigger for me, and just had rotator cuff surgery that necessitated taking pain meds and Ibuprofen. Needless to say, even taking Prednisone that week I still had a breakout. Fortunately, it hasn’t worsened and I stopped the pain meds as soon as I possibly could.
My attitude and outlook about having CIU has changed after reading other people’s stories and watching numerous YouTube videos about it. Things could always be worse and even if there’s no cure now, maybe there will be one day. Until then I will keep my icepacks handy for soothing relief and stay on my antihistamines. And I will let you know how the Xolair works. Fingers crossed!
How long have you been getting injections? Did the temporary relief begin right away with the first one?
I did try weaning off the Xolair a few months ago but the itching returned so I’m on the shots for the long haul!
Good luck!