hives

I started to get hives about 4 years ago . I went to a allergist and they could not find anything that would cause this . The hives act up worse when I am stressed out . I have to take allergy meds all the time , I still have problems even on the meds with my whole back and my scalp. About the same time my hives started I have had problems with my neck . It goes up my head and gives me a bad headache, Had a mri done could see I was in pain but couldnt find why . Later I have developed swelling in my hands and feet and my legs and arms turn purple alot . I have been told that this is most likely stress . Has anyone ever had a problem like this,cause I am wondering if there is something bigger going on here .

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
One of the reasons for your symptoms can be chronic hives. It is defined as urticaria that persists for longer than 6 weeks. In most of the cases of chronic urticaria, the underlying pathology is idiopathic i.e it is not linked to any cause. 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, and cancers of the rectum, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.

I feel that you should find out the cause of your chronic urticaria by ruling out the various conditions causing it.

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.