Sounds familiar!!! I started getting hives in February 2003. They lasted a year! My allergist figured out which combination of medications worked for me. Zyrtec, Singulair, Zantac, Brethine and hydroxyzine for the "flares". They are under control now and I keep taking the meds. I hope to start the weaning process soon. Your case sounds like mine was... I would wake up with the red, itchy spots, sometimes welts. Mostly on my legs, arms and back area. My face (lips, eyes mostly...) would be swollen alot too... Daily I'd have welts around my waist where my jeans waistband went, and around where my brastrap was. I was miserable!!!! benedry helped alot too... even if the redness did'nt go away, it would provide some relief. I was a miserable year, but thank goodness it's better now. I hope you can find a doctor to help you. My doctor diagnosed it as: Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria and Angioedema. Take Care!!