Are these hives??

Hi!

I have been having bumps on my skin similar to this for a few months.  They start as itchy pink spots.  Then I itch them and they turn into these.  They occur on random spots on my body every day, lasting about a few hours each time.  

Please see this image:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3245/2946122376_b5f0b3d72a_b.jpg

First, eight months ago, I only a few little spots that looked kind of like this (but were wider and whiter) and they showed up in random spots on my hips for a week, for a couple hours each time.

Then, four months ago, for a week, I had a number of spots kind of similar to this, but not nearly as bad, but were accompanied by hand swelling and ankle swelling.

Now, for the past two months, I have been having these spots occasionally, for a few hours each time, and it has been getting worse and more frequent.

The doctor said they are hives but they don't look to me like the hives I've been seeing in images from google searches online.

Help!  Thank you.

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi,
There could be several causes for these bumps like hives, insect bites, dermatitis or any allergic reaction.
It would be difficult to assess without physically examining the lesions. However, they appear to be hives.

Hives or urticaria results in red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin. Hives can occur anywhere on the body such as the trunk, arms, and legs. They are usually allergic (food, medication and insect stings) but may also be due to infections and stress. There is a possibility that you might be exposed continuously to an unknown irritant or allergen like new soaps/detergents/cosmetics. It would be helpful if you discuss with your doctor to rule out any such possibility. However, many a times no specific cause for them is ever found.

They usually go away on their own. The most commonly used oral treatments are antihistaminics (such as cetirizine, loratidine, benadryl available over the counter). You may try calamine lotion locally which has a soothing effect. You need to maintain a good personal hygiene and thoroughly wash several times daily. Avoid using any cosmetic products.

However, if the symptoms persist or increase in frequency or intensity, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Do write in if you need any other information.

[margypops]

I get Hives Urticaria put it in your serach Engine ,there are several kinds also something called Dermographism, yours look similar to mine they are red bur also have a white center mine burn and sting I am searching for a MNatuarl Cure, try Aloe Vera Gel to soothe it , anti histimines dont work and the steroids have a lot of side effects,There is a long thread on this forum started a while ago I have found that very helpful with information from other sufferersGood Luck