(((Phrick)))

I can feel your pain and frustration. I have been there too many times ! But, Prednisone never worked for me. It is meant to be only a very short-term relief. There are BIG negatives in taking the steriod for extended periods of time. #1. It really thins the skin excessively & permanently! It isn't worth one day without hives. You may think it is worth a day off is worth the chance in the really intense moments of scratching & seeing hives all over your body (some as big as your whole leg on your back).....but it is NOT worth it.

Cool oatmeal baths helps some people in those real dark times. Avoiding your triggers is HUGE in finding relief. That, unfortunately, takes some time. Delayed pressure urticaria is a frequent cause for many of us. That means no form fitting clothes, socks, shoes, or undergarments. Put watch on without any clasp. Let it hang loosely.

Some people have reactions to weather. I can't do cold or hot weather without becoming red and puffy. Which can make shopping in grocery stores a real trick! Something I just have to work around and get out asap.

Exercise, like rigorous exercise, can be a trigger. I believe that's linked to becoming real hot. If that's a trigger, do less intense work-outs.

Finding the trigger/s takes a lot of time. Hell, last time I just gave up looking. I figured what's the point? I've noticed that during flare ups, my skin reacts to almost everything and there is nothing to relieve it but time. I hate to sound like Miss Negative here, but it's so true. It can seriously take doctors YEARS to finally figure out what the problem is ~ and that'a a heck of a lot of hives to fight in the meantime. I was best off just saying, "F it. They'll go away one of these days." I avoided what really got my skin going and stopped meds, docs, etc.

I did put a link to a real helpful site on another post. May have been yours. Please do check it out, these people are much more knowledgeable and understanding than I can express. They are the International Chronic Urticaria Society.

http://www.urticaria.thunderworksinc.com

Best wishes ~ and gentle hugs!!