Originally uploaded by kate hirsch.

So I’ve developed hives in the last 24-48 hours, and I can’t figure out why. I haven’t eaten things out of the ordinary, I haven’t been too stressed… My skin has been fairly dry recently and I haven’t been good about putting lotion on, which could be the catalyst, but who really knows. I was feeling itchy (but didn’t have any hives) on Saturday and put lotion on then, and tried a thicker one on Sunday because I was still itchy. By last night both my legs and part of my arms were covered in hives. With some help from Calydryl lotion and some Benadryl, I was able to fall asleep and Adam didn’t have to listen to me furtively itch underneath the covers. (We’re pretty sure it was Benadryl, but I threw away the package and put the pills in a plastic bag when we moved, thinking, “I’m a nurse, I’ll recognize what these bright pink pills are without a problem!” Kids – don’t do this at home.)

This morning, I was inspired to document the hives on my leg for posterity. Why, you ask? Because I can! I just thought this photo was kind of cool, but being in the medical profession, I find a lot of things cool that gross other people out.

The hives have calmed down a little this afternoon, but I’m still in an itchy hell – but not as itchy and fiery as earlier. It takes a lot of concentration NOT to itch, so I’m off to the drug store to buy more Benadryl (I’ll keep the packaging this time).