I have had outbreaks of hives almost every day for three weeks. I can make no connection to any environmental cause, food or new medication. One time I thought my bath was too hot; several other times I was under stress to make it to an appointment on time; sometimes they have appeared while sitting or standing inactively. The first time the wheals were widespread on my back, shoulders, thighs and neck. That time they itched, but usually it is more of a burning sensation. They often present on the palms of my hands as an almost polka dot pattern. Today they took the pattern of two gloves up to my wrists. The first time was the worst with a couple of other times being similar. They have been relieved by taking a Benadryl and stopping physical activity. Additionally, I am experiencing extreme fatigue worse than any I have felt in 25 years of being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I become very short of breath upon the least exertion, actually panting and reaching deeply for breath. Those times are accompanied by cold sweats on my head and neck. Oddly enough I have been able to continue my three times a week swimming 800-1000 strokes in a warm pool. The fatigue is not noticeable nor is the breathlessness. I have recently been tentatively diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy, pending the results of puncture biopsies taken yesterday. I have severe numbness in my hands and feet, back of my thighs, buttocks and the perineum. A spinal tap and two MRI s a month ago showed the presence of old brain lesions consistent with MS that does not appear to be active now. When first having problems with fibromyalgia, a spinal tap was taken and a temporary diagnosis of MS was made. When no other symptoms appeared the diagnosis was withdrawn. Also it is as if my inner thermostat doesn t work. I turn the fan on high in a house where the temperature is 72 degrees. After a few minutes I turn it off. This goes on all through my waking hours. I sometimes step out into the winter air for comfort and seem to be somewhat impervious to cold. I can tell that it is cold, but it doesn t bother me particularly. I wear coat and gloves, but could often do without them, at least for a short time. Sheila Moore Mitchell