Urticaria - Development of rash during exercise.

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have a rash or hives for no reason and now they are reoccuring when I excercise and if I am exposed to heated water. I also have chills throughout the day and an excessive amount of body heat given off at night. What is up?

Dear April: Urticaria (also known as hives) is a raised, red, itchy rash that appears on the skin. They often come up quickly and are intensely itchy and last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Many things can cause hives, including foods, medicines and exercise (known as exercise induced urticaria). You may need to see your doctor for further evaluation of the rash. Your doctor may also test your thyroid levels as hyperthyroidism may present with similar symptoms. the best treatment of urticaria due to exercise is antihistamines, severe cases may even respond to beta blockers. I hope the information helps, take care.