Is it Typical Hives or an Emergency Situation?
This morning, I (20-year-old female) woke up to find myself covered in itchy hives. While some have started to fade, others remain noticeable, particularly on my arms and upper back, and they've now appeared on my face as well. Additionally, I've noticed significant swelling in one of my hands that began around two hours ago. I’m currently taking Lamictal for bipolar disorder, and my physician advised me to monitor for any skin reactions. I've been on this medication for over three months, with my last dosage increase happening more than a month ago. Yesterday, I handled a mushroom (but quickly sanitized my hands thereafter), and no other aspects of my daily routine—such as soaps, detergents, or other medications—have changed. Is this merely a standard allergic response, or is it advisable for me to go to the emergency room? I am 5'7" and weigh 115 pounds.
Answers (1)
8/1/2025, 10:50:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
Given your description, it’s essential to take your symptoms seriously, as they could indicate an allergic reaction that may require prompt attention.
Main Points:
- You’re experiencing hives and significant swelling, which may signal an allergic response.
- Swelling of the hands could progress to more severe reactions, especially if you have difficulty breathing, throat swelling, or other evolving symptoms.
Explanation:
Hives (urticaria) can indeed be a common allergic reaction. In your case, the appearance of hives, particularly with new swelling in one of your hands, is concerning. You mentioned you are taking Lamictal (lamotrigine), which can cause skin reactions in some individuals, though typically these develop within the first few weeks of starting the medication. However, new symptoms can arise at any time, so it’s crucial to evaluate the risk.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms, especially for any signs of difficulty breathing, throat tightness, rapid heartbeat, or widespread swelling. These could indicate a more severe reaction (anaphylaxis).
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Use Antihistamines: If you have over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), you may take it as a first step to help control the itching and reduce hives. However, be cautious as it can cause drowsiness.
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Seek Immediate Medical Help: Given the swelling in your hand, if it continues to worsen or if you develop any additional symptoms like breathing difficulty, swelling in your face/lips, or you feel faint, go to the emergency room right away. It’s better to be safe, especially with the possibility of an allergic reaction.
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Report to Your Doctor: Regardless of the outcome, follow up with your physician as soon as possible to discuss these symptoms and your medication. Your doctor may want to evaluate the safety of continuing Lamictal or consider other underlying causes for your hives.
Conclusion:
While the hives might seem manageable, the swelling raises a red flag. It's best to err on the side of caution and seek immediate medical evaluation if you’re feeling uncomfortable or worried about how your symptoms might progress.
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