I had a hysterectomy on July 24. Of course I was given multiple forms of anesthesia meds (I have a list). Also, afterward, I was given antibiotics and pain meds - some of which I went home on (mainly demerol). My last dose of demerol was on 8/1. 3- 4 days later I started itching and having hives - all over - some VERY large. A began taking benedryl (max doses) and using cortizone cream on the worst ones. By the next morning my eye was nearly swollen shut with hives and they had spread. There were so many by that point they were merging together. So, off to the er I went. They gave me an iv steroid and lots of benedryl. It took almost 100 mg. of benedryl to knock a dent in them.

I don't know for sure if I was having a respiratory response. I didn't have trouble breathing, but did have a "bruised" type feeling in my throat - a slight lump. Anyway - now to the investigator work, huh? Gotta try to figure out the cause.

Other than all the meds i was on - the only NEW thing was that my husband accidentally picked up the wrong dryer sheets. Wouldn't you be more inclined to think it was a med than the dryer sheet? I lean that way anyway.

My last "new" allergy was to levaquin which I had during a surgery in FEbruary. I'm also allergic to codeine. I have terrible reactions (but not allergic) to reglan (metoclopramide) and midrin (migraine med).

Thoughts? Thanks in advance! DN