What causes itchy rashes and hives?
Patient: Every 3-4 days, a raised, itchy rash will appear somewhere on my 12 year-old s body. Never in the same place. First it was on buttocks, then hands, forearms another day, shins a few days later. Yesterday it appeared on his wrists, knees and cheeks. It is alleviated in a matter of minutes after administering separate dosages of prednisolone, Zyrtec and Zantac. The hives first appeared May 10 after a day spent in the woods with friends. He may have rubbed a Bounce dryer sheet on his body to deter insects. But the rash will not completely go away and we are almost out of the prescription. Any thoughts? Doctor: Hi,  The ideal management of hives is to find the cause for the hives. Hives (urticaria) is usually caused by food, drug or environmental changes.   Antihistamine and steroid can give a temporary relief. The ideal treatment is to avoid yourself from the causative agent. I request you to consult your Dermatologist who will help you in managing the condition.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Regards, Dr. Siva Subramanian,  Dermatologist