Hives and Hep C

[Corik]

I'm 34 years-old. I was recently diagnosed with hep C. My liver biopsy came back good. my viral load is low and I will begin treatment in the next couple of months. I have suffered from chronic hives (uticaria) since the moment I was infected. (Yes, I know when this happened unfortunately) I can't seem to pinpoint what causes the hives to flare up but it's really scaring me at this point. I take benedryl almost everyday. My headaches and fatigue seem to be worse as the hives do. I'm afraid to take OTC pain meds because I don't know which is better. I'm just really frightened right now and would appreciate any help you can offer me about these symptoms and this disease.


This discussion is related to hepatitis and hives.

[Corik]

Thank you for your help. The more I've read on this site, the more I'm beginning to see a pattern between hives and hep C. I'ts nice to know I'm not the only one.
I have apoken to my Doctor on numerous occasions about this issue and all he can really tell me is to go see a dermatologist- but I have no allergies. I think, as funny as it sounds- I'm having an allergic reaction to the hep C virus. Your liver is what produces histamines and hives are caused by histamines. They're obviously related. Are there any phycisians out there that could elaborate on this? Again, thanks for your help.

[Isobella]

I've always been prone to hives, also.  Especially during times of stress.  I imagine being diagnosed with hcv will rank pretty high on the stress-o-meter of life, so perhaps that is why you are having this problem now.

I use Desonide Lotion and Ointment 0.05% for hives on my body and Atopiclair for hives on my face.  I also take Atarax 10mg at night when I'm symptomatic.  Like benedryl, Atarax will make your fatigue worse, that's why I take it only before bed.  I used it all through tx.  During tx, you are so dried out from the meds, benedryl may make it worse because it contains a decongestant.

I also use Aveeno bath and Free and Clear laundry detergent.  Anything that is gentle on the skin is best to use.  

As far as OTC meds, my hepatologist prefers tylenol as long as you don't take more than what is recommended.  Check with your doc to see what he/she says.

Good luck to you.

Isobella