Allergic reaction

Allergies. And yes.

Yep.

Allergies can develop over time - the thing people don't realise is that it's usually something they've been exposed to many times before, not something new. Sensitivities can build from *too much* or just regular exposure. A lot of people develop sensitivities to things like latex or acrylic from their jobs and such.

I got full-on body-covering hives in spring for a few years. Instead of trying to pin down exactly what Spring Thing was causing them, they gave me a round of steroid pills and I was okay.

It is getting to be that time of year, so it could be that.

My co-worker had an inexplicable case of hives a few months ago, and the doctor finally deduced that they were likely caused by stress.

I have gotten that before over something as small as changing my detergent, soap or shampoo. Also dust on my clothing that was in the closet for a couple of months between wearings can do that to me as well. I do have allergies, though so I just end up washing everything in my standard detergent and going on...