The advice thread for random problems #7

[avabella]

I had Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria (CIU) for 6 years, looking back now it was likely caused by a virus my son had at the time. I saw a dermatologist and an immunologist. I was put on 4 x Anti Histamines dose for weeks to ‘flush it out’ didn’t work. Had to take an anti-histamine everyday, as soon as AH wears off broke out it hives. They appeared as raised lines as if an invisible cat attacked me and they were so itchy they stung. Very distracting when driving. Immunologist said my histamine response was faulty and they activated at anything. Which is why it is called Idiopathic.

Anyhow here is the crazy part. I no longer get CIU or any hives at all. It all started when I had my first covid shot (pfizer) I noticed I only needed an AH every other day. After my second pfizer shot I only needed to take an AH every 3-4 days. My third shot I reduced taking an AH to once or twice a month, and after my 4th and final shot I was only needing AH a few times a year!!! I now no longer get hives. I would love to know if any other CIU sufferers also had the same experience.

I wonder because mine was activated by a virus it was killed by the covid vax. I have heard that it can come on in pregnancy because of hormones. So there are probably other ways it was activated too, food allergy etc..

You asked if it was auto immune and yes it is, apparently a lot of sufferers also have Thyriod issues, hashimoto, I don’t but it is in my family.

This is really interesting. I had sudden onset of urticaria after my second child was born and anti histamines just didn’t touch it. It eventually went away but it took a good few months. I’ve always wondered if I have thyroid issues but all tests come back’normal’.

 

[Former_Antelopee]

Don't really know where to ask this question anyone have recommendations for a good water bottle that'll keep drinks cold?

 

[Melian]

Is there anything stronger than paracetamol that I can buy OTC for period pain please? Not ibuprofen as no one will sell that to me as soon as I mention I have asthma

 

[Kim Mild]

Did anyone else get a Our Future Health letter through the post about some study they are doing? If you did, are you going to sign up to do it ?

 

[Ivegone]

Toothpaste

Does it sting though I'm a wimp

 

[Serene Serena]

Someone near me has a sign on their drive saying "No dog fowling" and apart from the typo - I have chickens and I don't want dogs anywhere near them - it works. I would go for that option rather than expensive lion poo.

 

[Mamacita]

Can you use those little round poison traps? We had ants in our old house in the kitchen and I put them under the cupboards, behind the plinths and within a day or 2 the problem was gone. We have dogs and they couldnt get to them there. I did put one by the back door too and just made sure I watched them outside - they didnt bother with it

I saw a post yesterday for the garden but sure it can be used inside, a spray bottle 50% white vinegar and 50% water keeps ants, bugs and cats away. Ive trialled it around the raised beds today. Could be worth a try along skirting boards?

Are these the ones with poison they take back to their nest? Do you have a brand to recommend?

Thanks will have to try vinegar!

 

[Candytuft]

Is that what they said? I live on the 1st floor

Yes, it was in the terms of delivery. I'm sure. They might have changed the rules I guess.
I could be wrong of course. I will try ao.com this week when the bins have been emptied. It's full of my food and more to put in.

 

[cowtastrophe]

I'm not going to be reporting the weed smoking. I know from experience of repeatedly reporting drug dealing that the police don't give a toss. Besides, I genuinely don't want to fall out with my neighbours, I just think she's being a bit unreasonable.