itchy rash

I have been breaking out in a rash for about 2 months.  At first it was only when I was working outside or very actively busy.  I would start to itchsometimes on my thighs and buttocks ,sometimes on my arms chin and face. Red welts will appearand splotchy red areas.  The welts look like small and very large mosquito bites. Some are very smallred spots and some are the size of a nickel and raised. This morning my feet and my hands itchand I have not done anything physical. I have changed all soaps, shampoos and laundry detergents to be sure I am only using old faithful brands. We have washed all clothing and bedding.  I have watched my diet to be sure I am not eating anything unusual or different. This rash is extremely itchy and will go away without a trace. However it is a daily occurance. I am at a loss about what to do.  I called a dermatoligist fri. and have to wait a month to get an appt..  These breakouts are not small ones.  What could it be?

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

What you describe sounds like hives.  Hives are welts which come and go and itch.  Despite their reputation, hives are rarely allergic in nature (unless the association is obvious, which it usually isn't, as in your case.)

Does that mean that hives can "just come"?  Yes.  They also "just go."

To tide yourself over, you can while wiaitng for an appointment:

1) Take a photo of the welts in all their splendor.
2) Apply Sarna lotion (OTC) as needed for itch.
4) Take Benadryl 25 mg or chlortrimeton 4mg at bedtime (OTC-may cause drowsiness.)

Don't be shocked if the hives are long gone before the doctor gets around to seeing you.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[blondebird]

I have for about 6 mos. had hives.  At first I thought it was flea bites because they were just red bumps that itched.  Then the were obviously hives.  Now I have them everyday, sometimes alot sometimes not.  I use either clariton or zyrtec in the am and benedryl and zantac in the evening.  Sometimes they  are completly gone in the daytime and sometimes they don't leave until the next morning, only to return the following morning.  Sometimes I think it is from heat or just having something pressing against my skin.  Whats up?

[1953madison]

A related discussion, Unbearable itching was started.

[kristi901]

A related discussion, any suggestions? was started.