Doctors' Answers to "Frequently Asked Questions" - Hives


These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is always advised to consult their own physician.

Chronic Hives
Question: I'm writing regarding chronic hives. My aunt has had chronic hives for six years and has found no relieve during this time. Her doctors can not find the source of her hives. She is currently taking Claritin and has had minor relief. Is there a cheaper anti-histamine that she can take for her hives? The only other medication is she taking is hypertension medicine I'm unsure of which type.

Answer: We don't find the etiology for chronic hives in about 60-70% of cases, even with aggressive diagnostic techniques, so this is pretty common. The cheaper antihistamines will make her sleepy, but are available over the counter at any pharmacy (Benadryl, Chlortrimeton, etc.)
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Last modified January 12, 1998