Hives and hormones

[Mama269]

I have been suffering from hives for about six months now.  It all started about the time I stopped breast feeding and started a new birth control pill.  They are worst around the time I have my period or when i have sex.  When I climax I break out so bad I am afraid I will have to go the hospital again.  I have went to the doctor so many times that it isn't even funny.  I have found out that I have reactions to Aleave, asprin, latex and shrimp.  Can somebody help


This discussion is related to Could my chronic hives be related to a hormone imbalance.

[jlb0330]

Something to ask your OBGYN or GP about.....I started writing down the pattern because no dr  wanted to listen to me. I figured it out on my own and pushed them to test me! 10 years of torture! mine started when I got pregnant and I get them most days a month now...and when my body is super run down. Good luck


Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis (APD) is primarily characterized by a recurrent skin rash that varies in severity depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. The rash generally appears during the second half of the cycle when levels of the hormone, progesterone, begin to rise and it subsides shortly after menstruation. Although the exact underlying cause of APD is not well understood, it is thought to involve an abnormal immune reaction (autoimmune response) triggered by a woman's own progesterone. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include topical (applied to the skin) medications, systemic corticosteroids, hormone therapy to suppress the production of progesterone, and/or surgical removal of the ovaries.[1][2][3]
Last updated: 4/16/2015
Symptoms

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Autoimmune progesterone dermatitis (APD) is primarily characterized by a recurrent skin rash that varies in severity depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. The rash generally appears during the second half of the cycle when levels of the hormone, progesterone, begin to rise. Following menstruation, when the levels of progesterone naturally fall, the rash typically improves and may even completely resolve until the next cycle.[3][1]

A variety of skin rashes are associated with APD, including:[3][1][2]
Hives
Erythema multiforme
Swelling beneath the skin (angioedema)
Eczema-like rash
Annular erythema
Mouth sores

Rarely, APD  may progress to progesterone-induced anaphylaxis.[2][4]

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

Yes, that is a good point. Some of these triggers may not be readily controlled. It's either because they are unknown or they can not be avoided. However, all known triggers such as certain medications and food should be avoided as much as possible.

One thing to consider here is exercise induced allergies. This type of allergies may actually occur after certain exercises. The cause is unknown. Just as certain allergies  occur during menses or in the presence of increased temperature, exercises may trigger this form of allergy.  You may need to have this assessed by an allergologist or clinical immunologist  if your symptoms do persist. In exercise induced allergies, certain food or medications taken within 24 hours may actually cause allergic reactions when the person engages in particular exercises.

With regards to antihistamines, these may be taken prior to exposure to known allergens. Second generation antihistamines are nonsedating. However, it is best to have this assessed by a specialist so you will be guided accordingly.

I do hope this is able to help.

[Mama269]

Thats just it how do you avoid the hormones that your body produces.  I have two children and the only antihistamines that work make me sleep up to 12 hrs. sometimes longer any other advise.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

For allergic reactions, the best way to avoid this is to avoid the triggers. Stress, hormones and even change in temperatures may sometimes cause a flare. Take oral antihistamines and see if the condition improves. Avoiding any known triggers, spicy food and exposure to extreme heat and dust may also be able to help.