A member asked:

Do allergic reactions really get worse with each exposure?allergist said if i have only hives for reactions, chances are good it will stay only hives.

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Reid Blackwelder answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

Yes they get worse: Yes allergic reactions tend to get worse with each exposure, unless you are actively getting desensitization therapy, or other treatment to prevent some kinds of allergies. I would be concerned with hives as that suggests a fairly significant reaction, and i would worry you could have true anaphylaxis at some point if still being exposed. Carry an epipen!

Answered 9/15/2017

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Allergist is correct: Reactions are likely to be the same each time. If you know specific causes you should carefully avoid them. Carry an antihistamine at all times. Zyrtec (cetirizine) is often the best for hives. Many people need 2 or 3 at a time.

Answered 1/7/2015

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