It has been about 5 years since my chronic hives decided to run out on me. Like a toxic companion, all I can say is "good riddance" and I hope I never have to deal with them again. But I am only 45 years old with hopefully a lot of life left in the flesh, so I am not so naive to think they will NEVER try to re-establish contact with me. But I will be more mentally and emotionally prepared to deal with their aggravation and B.S. if they do show up again one day.
My theory about why the chronic hives happened to me has remained unchanged since my last blog post in 2014. I remain convinced that it was one of two daily medications that I had started 4-6 weeks prior to the hives onset. One of which increased in dose only days before the wheals appeared. The other a new birth control of which I was just starting the second pack after taking the week break between packs.
To be allergic to something, your body has to have been exposed to it previously. Then it may decide it doesn't like it after a subsequent exposure.
A close friend of mine recently shared how he had a life-threatening allergic reaction after taking the same antibiotic as before, but after a week break between the dose rounds. He had no problem with the first week on the antibiotics, but the second time put him in the hospital for nearly a week.
The one thing about the chronic hives -- they were never life-threatening for me. They were ugly and frustrating and at times very uncomfortable, but despite my worry and anxiety, I was not going to die from them. For that, I feel lucky and blessed.
For those of you struggling and seeking answers, I hope this blog helps and provides you with some insights based on all of my trials and errors. Good luck!!
