What Causes Severe Itching On Upper Thighs?

I am 34, very healthy, and have no allergies. For about six months, I have severe itching on my upper legs/thighs. I take Zyrtec every night to control it. If I don't, I get multiple, very bad bruising. My doctor said it's Hives. I don't have the red, typical hives, they look more like bumps people get when they are cold. Can this be hives?