Hi, I had chronic urticaria for 5 years, had all the allergy tests (bloodwork, etc.) and then discovered that I was allergic to coffee (especially filter coffee)!!! I knew I was also allergic to avocadoes and shellfish, and it turns out that I was also allergic to lecithin, which is a substance commonly used as an emulsifier in chocolate and the like. I am so very happy that I discovered what it was. The test that actually worked for me was a bio-resonance test, with something called a galvanometer. Don't know where you'd find it -- I had mine done in Oxford (as in the real Oxford, in England) many years ago. I do know how the chronic urticaria can really get you down, so GOOD LUCK in your search. P.S. I also read that bicarbonate of soda (about 1/4 of a teaspoon) in water, sipped slowly, helps. Also, if you put some in the bath, it has an anti-histaminic effect. Steer clear of any products which contain coal tar, petrolatum, or petroleum derivatives (mineral oils).
