Posted on Aug 1, 2022
SGT(P) Satellite Communication Systems Operator/Maintainer
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I have been dealing with hives for uknown reasons after like the second year after I enlisted. I'm on my fifth year now, and have been treating them with OTC allegra these last few years. The hives usually pop up whenever I am doing cardio or I take hot baths/showers, sometimes they even just show up for no good reason. I believe the doctor back then called it idiopathic urticaria. Nowadays Allegra doesn't seem to cut it, I can't run or lift heavy weights without being attacked by hives all over my body. If I go back to medical and admit that these things have been getting worse, would I be medboarded or would I still be able to meet the standard and stay in?
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MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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You are going to need to see a Dermatologist for this issue. Based on one search result (healthline.com), it states that "Chronic idiopathic urticaria isn’t an allergy and isn’t contagious. It’s probably caused by a combination of factors. These may include environmental irritants, your immune system, and genetics. It can also be a response to a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection."

If this did not develop until after you enlisted, then lucky you because DoDI 6130.03 states this issue is a DQ.

As for a MEDBOARD, only your Doctor can answer that one. Now, your choices are to go and admit you have a skin problem that isn't resolving and get it treated or not get it treated and it possibly get even worse than it already is.
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SGT(P) Satellite Communication Systems Operator/Maintainer
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I guess you're right. I'll see what my physician says and I'll exhaust all options. Thank you SFC
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SFC Retention Operations Nco
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I've seen that before, it's not uncommon. Basically the sweating irritates the skin and causes hives. Allegra is a 2nd Gen antihistamine, they are better at handling allergic reactions with fewer side effects but don't act as strong as first gen antihistamines with work well against systemic issues but have worse side effects
For instance, Allegra is good for seasonal allergies, Benadryl is good when you're allergic to bee stings and have been stung. There are newer third gen antihistamines that your provider can try as well. In fact there are probably close to a dozen different ones to try before throwing in the towel.

You need to go back to your provider so they can exhaust other options. It's not uncommon for people to rotate through antihistamines as one loses effectiveness and another works for a while. Obviously, I'm not a doctor so don't go self prescribing based off what I've told you. Ask for a referral to a dermatologist

As for MEB, you'll stay in until your provider exhausts all options for treatment and the condition prevents you from doing your job.
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SGT(P) Satellite Communication Systems Operator/Maintainer
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I'll be scheduling an appointment soon and see what the physician says. But thank you SFC
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SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth
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I would see a dermatologist to be on the safe side brother SGT(P) (Join to see)
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