I am now going on having chronic hives for 8 years. I do have allergies, but have seen allergists, dermatologists, general practioners, etc. I've been on predinesone, benadryl, attarax,doxepin,zytec, etc., etc. Nothing worked. I finally quit taking everything and take Benadryl when I can't stand it anymore. My hives cycle and go from the size of a pinky nail to plates, there is not a place on my body that I've never had one. I've been tested twice for Lyme's, thyroid, lupus, etc., everything comes back negative...my doctors state I'm in the "theory" categories which have to do with marker cells coming too close to the mast cells, etc. I just feel like there's some reason. If anyone has any ideas for what this could be I'd appreciate it. Hot showers seem to cause them to dissipate. I've also been tested for vasulitis - negative... thanks.