allergic reactions
"I had a severe allergic reaction to poison ivy. Both arms, from my wrist to my elbow, were covered in hives. I had to run to the sink every 10 minutes because it felt like arms were on fire and the worst itch imaginable. I was averaging 1 to 2 hours of sleep a night for weeks. Prednisone saved me, literally. I was going crazy from the intense burning feeling, severe itching and no sleep. I am on my 4th round of prednisone, since most doctors prescribe way too low a dose for this severe of a reaction. Finally find the right doctor who gave me the correct dosage. I can finally get some sleep and my arms are not on fire. If it was not for this medication I think I would be in the loony bin somewhere scratching the skin off my arms."