Which is best for hives

[margypops]

I am uncertain what causes the hives I get, it may be from the plants in my garden, cactus etc,  but they have been severe this year I thought once fall came it would ease off but it is worse. So which OTC would help me , is Zyrtec worth trying I have tried claritin doesnt do anything ,and do these kick in straight away or take a few days to work,yhe burning and itching I get round my neck ,tops of arms is really painful . the anti histime hydroizone I had from the Doctor last year made it worse. Thank you

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, welcome to the forum, your history is suggestive of physical urticaria. The triggering factor should be identified and further exposure should be avoided. This condition can be diagnosed with proper history and allergen challenge test by skin specialist or immunologist.

Initial treatment includes start of second generation anti histamines, as it is not improving, in such cases doubling of the standard dose helps against prescription. As claritin has not helped you, you can consider other anti histamines. First generation drugs like diphenhydramine are also effective but associated with drowsiness. Even H2 antihistamines can be considered. Adding steroids can be quite helpful to alleviate the inflammation and reduce itching. I suggest you to consult skin specialist/immunologist for detailed evaluation. Take care and regards.

[margypops]

I have tried claritan but it hasnt helped ,I usually like natural meds but these are driving me nuts at the moment.  Doctor will just prescribe prednisone which has made me sick in the past .thanks for the input I will try it .

[Amberdawn171]

I take Benedryl and it helps usually. I get random hives all the time :/.

[margypops]

bump?