chronic hives + 3 months

I have had blister type hives for over 3 months, OTC allergy remedies do not help, either pills or topical was hospitalized months ago, and given steroids, which did not keep the hives at bay either. I was told it was an allergy due to change in OTC medication or stress. Finding an answer isnt driving me crazy, the constant itching is severely effecting my quality of life, and I have no insurance. I make just enough money to NOT qualify for assistance, and the insurance offered by my employer is too expensive.  I sit at home trying not to itch , then giving in, and have scratched to the point where I have created an almost eczema like rash. I have changed all of my body products and cleaners to fragrance, dye free, etc, to no avail, also went on a short vacation, hoping it would go away, meaning there is something in my house I was allergic to, but that was not the case. It didnt get any better at all. Please help!!! I'd like to find out what is wrong with me. Other symptoms I have include, extreme weariness, lethargy, weight gain, I'm 5'1 and now 170lbs, although I wear it well, shaking, inability to think clearly, stuttering, occasional dizziness or faintness, I don't even want to be in public, or go out with friends, and I have always been the party planner, social butterfly of my friends. I am at my wits end, it's making me depressed. again, please help!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The cause of chronic urticaria is often more difficult to identify. Most cases are called chronic idiopathic urticaria, which means they're caused by the body's unexplainable development of antibodies to itself (auto-antibodies).
It is essential to rule out the presence of serious illnesses of which recurring hives can be a symptom. Examples are hepatitis, hyperthyroidism, lymphomas, collagen vascular diseases. You can take non-sedating antihistamines such as Cetirizine or Loratadine(Claritin) when the rash appears. Short courses of oral cortisone or steroids are taken for short periods (one to three days) to settle more severe symptoms. You may take Vitamin C along with the prescribed treatment. Vitamin C is a general anti-allergy supplement. Also apply calamine lotion and a mild steroid cream on the rash.
If the symptoms persist then get an evaluation done from a dermatologist.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.