What is causing the swelling and hives?
Patient: My daughter-in-law was diagnosed with Celiac in December.  She has been diagnosed with MS since August 2008.  She is having major problems with hives and swelling.  Her face swells up almost every day.  Today, she woke up with her eyes almost swollen shut.  She is sticking very strictly to her gluten free diet.  She has been allergy tested for common food allergies and had no significant reactions.  They hives and swelling have been getting worse lately and started in the summer 2010.  We are at a loss.  What are your thoughts? Doctor: Hello.Thank you for asking at HCM.I went through your daughter-in-law's history and would like to make following suggestions for her:1. I would like to mention here that most of long standing hives and swellings (angioedema) are non-allergic. So if her all allergy testing is negative, I would not suggest her to think of "allergy to something", rather than they may be related to abnormal functioning of immune system. As both celiac and multiple sclerosis are non-allergic immune-related disorders, chances are very high that her hives are non-allergic.2. I usually suggest such patients daily antihistamines like cetirizine/hydroxyzine regularly. The dose of them can be adjusted according to response of her symptoms. 3. In general, I would suggest her avoidance of too spicy/too hot diet. Also please activities causing excessive sweating and hot water baths.4. Personally, I would also suggest her tight-fitting, woolen or synthetic type of clothes. In my opinion, loose-fitting, cotton clothes will be the best.5. I would suggest her a diet rich in vitamins and minerals (plenty of green leafy vegetables, fruits, sprouts, etc) which will help her immunity in a long run.6. A stress-free life is very important for a healthy immune system. Regular relaxation, meditation and exercises will also help her in a long run.Hope above suggestions will e helpful to her.Should you have any further query, please feel free to ask at HCM.Wish your daughter the best of the health.Thank you & Regards.