Skin itching

[lulu4444]

I have 2 questions to be precise.  I am 50 yr old woman.
1.  Since my teenage days, I have been suffering from eczema on top of both my feet.  The skin used to itch very much and I could not help but scratch the same.  The feeling was nice.  Then a burning sensation would occur and the scratched area would ooze a transparent sticky liquid.  I had several ointments applied over the years and inbetween the years, it had disappeared.  From this year onwards, the same symptoms have reappeared and it has caused the area or patch to increase in size.  I have been applying EXCEL G ointment which helps a little, but when I stop after seeing it has helped, the itching occurs again and I have to apply the ointment.  I am also having homeopathy medicine at the same time.  What could help me to get rid of this completely ?  It has left very ugly dark marks on top of both my feet - how do I remove the bad marks / scars ?
2.  Since one month now, a hives type of thing just appears all over my body, mainly on both sides of the arms, on my back, legs and buttocks.  The areas turn red and a cluster of tiny rash type or prickly heat type of pimples appear with an itching sensation.  This occurs any part of the day, no specific time.  When it appears, I just dab some cold water on the areas and within seconds it disappears on its own.  Initially, I had taken an allergy tablet and it went away.  But this is occuring every single day.  What do I do ?  It is so bothersome and troubling.....
Eagerly awaiting your kind response Doctor which will be very much appreciated.

[lulu4444]

Dear Doc,
Thanks so much for responding to my mail.  I really appreciate the time you concentrated for me.
I will certainly consult my physician as requested by you.
Regarding the "hives" - most of the causes mentioned by you are ruled out except for allergy.  My physician has asked me to have an allergy test done (blood) when it will be more clear and precise.  
Thank you once again for your time doctor.
God bless you.

[Dr_Smita_S]

Hi
When topical corticosteroids do not provide relief, sometimes the doctor may consider prescribing some more potent corticosteroids for some period, in adults with eczema on the scalp, limbs, and trunk or those with chronic/ lichenified eczema. Newer two topical eczema drugs like pimecrolimus (Elidel Cream) and tacrolimus (Protopic Ointment) are reserved only for cases where corticosteroids have not been effective. Sometimes oral corticosteroids and immunosuppressants like cyclosporine and phototherapy are used for resistant cases. Since you are having intense itching, your doctor may prescribe some sedative-antihistaminics to reduce itching. You may discuss about these treatment options with your doctor. Besides you should take certain measures like avoiding irritants like perfumes and detergents, keep the skin hydrated by regularly using moisturizer.
Urticaria, also commonly called hives may be related to allergy, stress (emotional/physical), heat , cold or exercise. You should try moisturizing lotions and some over-the-counter antihistaminics like cetirizine or loratidine. Anti-itch creams such as diphenhydramine (benadryl) may provide relief. If there is no relief, you should consult a doctor for a complete clinical examination and tests for allergy panel.
Hope you got some insight.