What are the common symptoms of hay fever rash. How can you differentiate between various types of allergic skin reactions. What are the most effective treatments and home remedies for managing hay fever-related skin issues. How to identify when a rash requires medical attention.

Understanding Hay Fever and Its Impact on the Skin

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While it primarily impacts the eyes, nose, and throat, individuals with skin allergies may experience additional complications. Let’s explore the connection between hay fever and skin rashes, and how to effectively manage these symptoms.

Prevalence of Hay Fever

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), approximately 7.8% of adults in the United States suffer from hay fever. The condition is even more prevalent among children, affecting 9% of the younger population as of 2012. These statistics highlight the widespread nature of this allergic condition and the importance of understanding its various manifestations, including skin-related symptoms.

Recognizing Hay Fever Symptoms

Hay fever primarily affects the respiratory system and eyes. However, it’s crucial to be aware of all potential symptoms to effectively manage the condition. Common signs of hay fever include:

• Sneezing
• Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
• Watery eyes
• Runny or congested nose
• Fatigue
• Coughing or wheezing (in severe cases)

While skin rashes are not typically considered primary symptoms of hay fever, individuals with pre-existing skin conditions or sensitivities may notice flare-ups during high pollen seasons.

Types of Allergic Skin Rashes Associated with Hay Fever

Several types of skin rashes can occur in conjunction with hay fever or during the same seasons. Understanding these different rash types can help in identifying the underlying cause and seeking appropriate treatment.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. This condition often coexists with hay fever, particularly in individuals with moderate to severe cases. How are atopic dermatitis and hay fever related? Studies have shown that approximately half of the people with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis also experience hay fever, food allergies, or asthma. During hay fever season, individuals with both conditions may notice simultaneous flare-ups of their skin symptoms and respiratory allergies.

Hives (Urticaria)

Hives present as itchy, swollen welts on the skin. While not directly caused by hay fever, individuals with acute hives may experience symptom flare-ups during warmer months when pollen counts are high. What triggers hives in people with hay fever? The same allergens that cause respiratory symptoms can sometimes lead to skin reactions in sensitive individuals.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an allergen or irritant. During spring and summer, increased outdoor activities can lead to more frequent exposure to plants like poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac, resulting in bumpy, scaly, itchy, or swollen skin in the affected areas.

Non-Allergic Skin Conditions That May Coincide with Hay Fever Season

It’s important to note that not all skin rashes occurring during hay fever season are directly related to pollen allergies. Several other conditions can cause skin irritation during the warmer months:

Heat Rash

Also known as prickly heat, this condition is caused by excessive sweating that blocks or inflames sweat ducts in the skin. Heat rash typically appears as itchy bumps and is more common in hot, humid environments. How can you differentiate heat rash from allergic reactions? Unlike allergic rashes, heat rash is directly related to environmental temperature and humidity levels, rather than exposure to specific allergens.

Insect Stings and Bites

Warmer weather brings increased insect activity, leading to a higher likelihood of stings and bites. While most reactions are mild, individuals with insect allergies may experience severe reactions requiring immediate medical attention. What are the signs of a severe allergic reaction to an insect sting? Symptoms may include widespread hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or tongue, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.

Tick Bites and Lyme Disease

Spring and summer are peak seasons for tick activity, particularly for immature black-legged ticks (nymphs) that can transmit Lyme disease. The characteristic bull’s-eye rash associated with Lyme disease appears in 70-80% of cases. How can you identify a Lyme disease rash? It typically starts small and gradually expands into a large ring or bull’s-eye shape, feeling warm but not usually itchy or painful.

Diagnosing Hay Fever-Related Skin Conditions

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of hay fever-related skin conditions. Healthcare professionals employ various methods to determine the cause of skin rashes:

• Physical examination: Doctors assess the appearance and characteristics of the rash
• Medical history review: Understanding past allergic reactions and patterns can provide valuable insights
• Skin prick tests: These tests expose the skin to potential allergens to observe reactions
• Blood tests: In some cases, blood tests may be used to identify specific allergens

When should you consult a doctor for a skin rash? It’s advisable to seek medical attention if the rash is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing.

Effective Treatments for Hay Fever-Related Skin Conditions

Managing hay fever-related skin conditions often involves a multi-faceted approach. Here are some effective treatments:

Topical Treatments

Topical creams and ointments can provide relief for inflamed and itchy skin. Options include:

• Calamine lotion: Soothes itching and reduces inflammation
• Hydrocortisone cream: Helps alleviate itching and redness
• Moisturizers: Keep skin hydrated and protect the skin barrier

Oral Medications

Oral antihistamines can help manage both respiratory and skin symptoms of hay fever. How do antihistamines work to relieve hay fever symptoms? These medications block the action of histamine, a chemical released by the body during allergic reactions, thereby reducing itching, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms.

Immunotherapy

For individuals with severe or persistent allergies, allergy immunotherapy may be recommended. This treatment involves exposing the body to gradually increasing amounts of an allergen to build tolerance over time. How long does immunotherapy take to show results? While some people may notice improvements within a few months, it typically takes 1-3 years of consistent treatment for maximum effectiveness.

Home Remedies and Self-Care Strategies

In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies and self-care strategies can help manage hay fever-related skin conditions:

1. Cool compresses: Apply to affected areas to reduce inflammation and itching
2. Lukewarm baths: Use gentle, lukewarm water instead of hot water when bathing
3. Gentle drying: Pat the skin dry rather than rubbing to avoid irritation
4. Fragrance-free products: Use unscented, gentle skin care products to minimize irritation
5. Soothing baths: Add baking soda or colloidal oatmeal to bathwater for added relief
6. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin and body hydrated
7. Wear protective clothing: Cover exposed skin when outdoors to reduce contact with allergens

How can you create a skin-friendly environment at home? Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor allergens, keep windows closed during high pollen days, and regularly wash bedding in hot water to remove allergens.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Skin Rashes

While many hay fever-related skin conditions can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Seek professional help if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Oozing or crusty rashes
• Signs of infection, such as pus or fever
• Rashes that spread rapidly or to other parts of the body
• Symptoms that don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments
• A rash resembling a target or bull’s-eye (potential sign of Lyme disease)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

How quickly should you seek medical attention for severe allergic reactions? In cases of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, immediate emergency care is crucial. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can progress rapidly and may be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Preventing Hay Fever-Related Skin Issues

While it’s not always possible to completely prevent hay fever-related skin conditions, several strategies can help minimize their occurrence and severity:

Allergen Avoidance

Reducing exposure to allergens is a key preventive measure. Consider the following tips:

• Monitor pollen forecasts and limit outdoor activities on high pollen days
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen times
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
• Use air conditioning with high-efficiency filters in your home and car

Skin Care Routine

Maintaining a proper skin care routine can help protect your skin and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups:

• Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
• Apply moisturizer regularly, especially after bathing
• Avoid hot showers or baths, which can dry out the skin
• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays, which can exacerbate some skin conditions

Stress Management

Stress can worsen allergic symptoms and skin conditions. How does stress impact allergies and skin health? Stress can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation in the body, potentially exacerbating allergic reactions and skin issues. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your routine to help manage stress levels.

The Role of Diet in Managing Hay Fever and Skin Health

While diet alone cannot cure hay fever or related skin conditions, certain nutritional strategies may help support overall immune function and skin health:

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet may help reduce allergy symptoms and support skin health. Consider adding the following to your meals:

• Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., salmon, mackerel)
• Fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants (e.g., berries, leafy greens)
• Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties
• Green tea, which contains polyphenols with anti-allergic effects

Probiotics

Can probiotics help with allergies and skin health? Some studies suggest that probiotics may help modulate the immune system and potentially reduce allergic symptoms. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of probiotics on hay fever and skin conditions.

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is crucial for overall health and can help maintain skin hydration. How much water should you drink daily to support skin health? While individual needs vary, a general guideline is to aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day, adjusting based on factors such as activity level, climate, and overall health.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Hay Fever and Skin Allergies

The field of allergy research is continuously evolving, with new treatments and approaches being developed to better manage hay fever and related skin conditions. Some areas of ongoing research include:

Biologics

Biologic medications target specific pathways in the immune system involved in allergic reactions. How do biologics differ from traditional allergy medications? Unlike broad-acting antihistamines, biologics are designed to target specific molecules involved in the allergic response, potentially offering more precise and effective treatment for severe cases.

Microbiome Research

Scientists are exploring the role of the skin and gut microbiome in allergic conditions. What is the connection between the microbiome and allergies? The microbiome plays a crucial role in immune function, and imbalances in microbial communities may contribute to the development or exacerbation of allergic conditions. Future treatments may focus on modulating the microbiome to manage allergies and skin health.

Gene Therapy

Advances in gene therapy may eventually lead to new treatments for allergic conditions. How might gene therapy be used to treat allergies? Researchers are investigating ways to modify genes involved in allergic responses, potentially offering long-term solutions for managing allergies and related skin conditions.

As research in these areas progresses, individuals with hay fever and related skin conditions may have access to more targeted and effective treatments in the future. It’s important to stay informed about new developments and consult with healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.

Can pollen cause a hay fever rash? Symptoms and remedies

Hay fever is the common name for a pollen allergy, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itchiness, and watery eyes. People with skin allergies may find that hay fever also triggers rashes.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), about 7.8% of adults in the United States have hay fever. It is slightly more common in younger people, affecting 9% of children in 2012.

A pollen allergy can cause a rash when pollen counts are high in spring or summer.

In this article, we look at the symptoms of hay fever, the different types of allergic skin rashes, and the treatments and home remedies.

Hay fever is a type of allergic rhinitis, which means that the condition primarily affects the eyes, nose, and throat. Many people with hay fever experience the following symptoms:

People with severe hay fever may also feel weak and tired and have asthma-like symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing, during spring and summer.

Skin rashes are not among the main symptoms of hay fever. However, people with other skin conditions or skin allergies may notice that their skin flares up when they have hay fever.

A person may experience several types of allergic skin rash during summer. The flare-up may be due to hay fever, or it may occur for different reasons.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis causes itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. Among people with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, half also have hay fever, food allergies, or asthma.

People with both atopic dermatitis and hay fever may find that their skin flares up at the same time as their hay fever. Heat and sweat can also worsen atopic dermatitis.

Hives

Hives, or urticaria, causes itchy, swollen welts in the skin. People with acute hives only develop a rash when they come into contact with specific triggers, such as allergens or heat. Someone with acute hives may find that their symptoms flare up during the warmer months.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when someone touches an allergen or irritating substance, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac. It causes bumpy, scaly, itchy, or swollen skin in the area that came into contact with the substance.

During the summer, people may spend more time outside, making contact with these plants more likely.

In addition to skin allergies and atopic dermatitis, a person may develop a rash during hay fever season for several other reasons that are unrelated to allergies.

Heat rash

Warmer temperatures can cause heat rashes, or prickly heat. This condition occurs when excessive sweating blocks or inflames the sweat ducts in the skin, causing itchy bumps. It is most common in hot, humid environments.

Insect stings

Bees, wasps, and other insects can bite or sting humans, which may cause skin irritation, pain, or swelling. It is normal for insect stings to cause a minor rash, but people who are allergic to insect stings may have a severe reaction that requires emergency treatment.

Tick bites

Spring and summer are when immature black-legged ticks, or nymphs, are most active. This type of tick is the most likely to spread Lyme disease, which causes a skin rash in 70–80% of people who develop the condition.

A Lyme disease rash starts small and then expands gradually into a large ring or bull’s-eye shape. The rash may feel warm, but not itchy or painful.

A doctor can diagnose the cause of a rash by evaluating the person’s symptoms, their medical history, and the appearance of the rash.

If a doctor thinks that someone has an allergy but is unsure what is causing it, they may perform a skin prick test. This test involves exposing the skin to allergens, such as grass or ragweed, and then checking for a reaction.

For rashes that occur or get worse due to hay fever, a person can try the following:

• topical creams to calm inflammation and itching, such as calamine lotion
• over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines to reduce allergy symptoms
• allergy immunotherapy, which “trains” the immune system to stop reacting to an allergen

People with atopic or contact dermatitis, hives, a heat rash, or a mild sting may find that they can soothe their skin at home. A person can try:

• applying cool compresses to the skin
• using lukewarm rather than hot water for washing
• patting the skin dry rather than rubbing it
• using gentle, unscented skin products and soaps
• adding one-quarter of a cup of baking soda or colloidal oatmeal to a bath and soaking the affected area for 10–15 minutes

A person with persistent or severe symptoms may have a condition that requires medical treatment. A person should speak to a doctor if their rash:

• is very painful or swollen
• is weepy or crusty
• produces pus
• occurs alongside a fever
• spreads to other parts of the body
• does not respond to OTC antihistamines
• resembles a target or bull’s-eye

A person should seek emergency help if they are having trouble breathing or have a swollen throat or tongue. These are symptoms of anaphylaxis, which can be fatal.

Hay fever typically causes respiratory symptoms in the nose, throat, and eyes. However, some people may find that their skin also reacts when their allergy symptoms flare up. This flare-up may cause a rash in the form of hives or worsen a preexisting condition, such as atopic dermatitis.

Other seasonal causes of skin rashes include heat rash, poison ivy, insect bites, and Lyme disease. If a person’s symptoms get worse or do not respond to OTC allergy treatments, they should see a doctor.

Can pollen cause a hay fever rash? Symptoms and remedies

Hay fever is the common name for a pollen allergy, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itchiness, and watery eyes. People with skin allergies may find that hay fever also triggers rashes.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), about 7.8% of adults in the United States have hay fever. It is slightly more common in younger people, affecting 9% of children in 2012.

A pollen allergy can cause a rash when pollen counts are high in spring or summer.

In this article, we look at the symptoms of hay fever, the different types of allergic skin rashes, and the treatments and home remedies.

Hay fever is a type of allergic rhinitis, which means that the condition primarily affects the eyes, nose, and throat. Many people with hay fever experience the following symptoms:

People with severe hay fever may also feel weak and tired and have asthma-like symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing, during spring and summer.

Skin rashes are not among the main symptoms of hay fever. However, people with other skin conditions or skin allergies may notice that their skin flares up when they have hay fever.

A person may experience several types of allergic skin rash during summer. The flare-up may be due to hay fever, or it may occur for different reasons.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis causes itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. Among people with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, half also have hay fever, food allergies, or asthma.

People with both atopic dermatitis and hay fever may find that their skin flares up at the same time as their hay fever. Heat and sweat can also worsen atopic dermatitis.

Hives

Hives, or urticaria, causes itchy, swollen welts in the skin. People with acute hives only develop a rash when they come into contact with specific triggers, such as allergens or heat. Someone with acute hives may find that their symptoms flare up during the warmer months.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when someone touches an allergen or irritating substance, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac. It causes bumpy, scaly, itchy, or swollen skin in the area that came into contact with the substance.

During the summer, people may spend more time outside, making contact with these plants more likely.

In addition to skin allergies and atopic dermatitis, a person may develop a rash during hay fever season for several other reasons that are unrelated to allergies.

Heat rash

Warmer temperatures can cause heat rashes, or prickly heat. This condition occurs when excessive sweating blocks or inflames the sweat ducts in the skin, causing itchy bumps. It is most common in hot, humid environments.

Insect stings

Bees, wasps, and other insects can bite or sting humans, which may cause skin irritation, pain, or swelling. It is normal for insect stings to cause a minor rash, but people who are allergic to insect stings may have a severe reaction that requires emergency treatment.

Tick bites

Spring and summer are when immature black-legged ticks, or nymphs, are most active. This type of tick is the most likely to spread Lyme disease, which causes a skin rash in 70–80% of people who develop the condition.

A Lyme disease rash starts small and then expands gradually into a large ring or bull’s-eye shape. The rash may feel warm, but not itchy or painful.

A doctor can diagnose the cause of a rash by evaluating the person’s symptoms, their medical history, and the appearance of the rash.

If a doctor thinks that someone has an allergy but is unsure what is causing it, they may perform a skin prick test. This test involves exposing the skin to allergens, such as grass or ragweed, and then checking for a reaction.

For rashes that occur or get worse due to hay fever, a person can try the following:

• topical creams to calm inflammation and itching, such as calamine lotion
• over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines to reduce allergy symptoms
• allergy immunotherapy, which “trains” the immune system to stop reacting to an allergen

People with atopic or contact dermatitis, hives, a heat rash, or a mild sting may find that they can soothe their skin at home. A person can try:

• applying cool compresses to the skin
• using lukewarm rather than hot water for washing
• patting the skin dry rather than rubbing it
• using gentle, unscented skin products and soaps
• adding one-quarter of a cup of baking soda or colloidal oatmeal to a bath and soaking the affected area for 10–15 minutes

A person with persistent or severe symptoms may have a condition that requires medical treatment. A person should speak to a doctor if their rash:

• is very painful or swollen
• is weepy or crusty
• produces pus
• occurs alongside a fever
• spreads to other parts of the body
• does not respond to OTC antihistamines
• resembles a target or bull’s-eye

A person should seek emergency help if they are having trouble breathing or have a swollen throat or tongue. These are symptoms of anaphylaxis, which can be fatal.

Hay fever typically causes respiratory symptoms in the nose, throat, and eyes. However, some people may find that their skin also reacts when their allergy symptoms flare up. This flare-up may cause a rash in the form of hives or worsen a preexisting condition, such as atopic dermatitis.

Other seasonal causes of skin rashes include heat rash, poison ivy, insect bites, and Lyme disease. If a person’s symptoms get worse or do not respond to OTC allergy treatments, they should see a doctor.

Can pollen cause a hay fever rash? Symptoms and remedies

Hay fever is the common name for a pollen allergy, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itchiness, and watery eyes. People with skin allergies may find that hay fever also triggers rashes.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), about 7.8% of adults in the United States have hay fever. It is slightly more common in younger people, affecting 9% of children in 2012.

A pollen allergy can cause a rash when pollen counts are high in spring or summer.

In this article, we look at the symptoms of hay fever, the different types of allergic skin rashes, and the treatments and home remedies.

Hay fever is a type of allergic rhinitis, which means that the condition primarily affects the eyes, nose, and throat. Many people with hay fever experience the following symptoms:

People with severe hay fever may also feel weak and tired and have asthma-like symptoms, such as coughing or wheezing, during spring and summer.

Skin rashes are not among the main symptoms of hay fever. However, people with other skin conditions or skin allergies may notice that their skin flares up when they have hay fever.

A person may experience several types of allergic skin rash during summer. The flare-up may be due to hay fever, or it may occur for different reasons.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis causes itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. Among people with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, half also have hay fever, food allergies, or asthma.

People with both atopic dermatitis and hay fever may find that their skin flares up at the same time as their hay fever. Heat and sweat can also worsen atopic dermatitis.

Hives

Hives, or urticaria, causes itchy, swollen welts in the skin. People with acute hives only develop a rash when they come into contact with specific triggers, such as allergens or heat. Someone with acute hives may find that their symptoms flare up during the warmer months.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when someone touches an allergen or irritating substance, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac. It causes bumpy, scaly, itchy, or swollen skin in the area that came into contact with the substance.

During the summer, people may spend more time outside, making contact with these plants more likely.

In addition to skin allergies and atopic dermatitis, a person may develop a rash during hay fever season for several other reasons that are unrelated to allergies.

Heat rash

Warmer temperatures can cause heat rashes, or prickly heat. This condition occurs when excessive sweating blocks or inflames the sweat ducts in the skin, causing itchy bumps. It is most common in hot, humid environments.

Insect stings

Bees, wasps, and other insects can bite or sting humans, which may cause skin irritation, pain, or swelling. It is normal for insect stings to cause a minor rash, but people who are allergic to insect stings may have a severe reaction that requires emergency treatment.

Tick bites

Spring and summer are when immature black-legged ticks, or nymphs, are most active. This type of tick is the most likely to spread Lyme disease, which causes a skin rash in 70–80% of people who develop the condition.

A Lyme disease rash starts small and then expands gradually into a large ring or bull’s-eye shape. The rash may feel warm, but not itchy or painful.

A doctor can diagnose the cause of a rash by evaluating the person’s symptoms, their medical history, and the appearance of the rash.

If a doctor thinks that someone has an allergy but is unsure what is causing it, they may perform a skin prick test. This test involves exposing the skin to allergens, such as grass or ragweed, and then checking for a reaction.

For rashes that occur or get worse due to hay fever, a person can try the following:

• topical creams to calm inflammation and itching, such as calamine lotion
• over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines to reduce allergy symptoms
• allergy immunotherapy, which “trains” the immune system to stop reacting to an allergen

People with atopic or contact dermatitis, hives, a heat rash, or a mild sting may find that they can soothe their skin at home. A person can try:

• applying cool compresses to the skin
• using lukewarm rather than hot water for washing
• patting the skin dry rather than rubbing it
• using gentle, unscented skin products and soaps
• adding one-quarter of a cup of baking soda or colloidal oatmeal to a bath and soaking the affected area for 10–15 minutes

A person with persistent or severe symptoms may have a condition that requires medical treatment. A person should speak to a doctor if their rash:

• is very painful or swollen
• is weepy or crusty
• produces pus
• occurs alongside a fever
• spreads to other parts of the body
• does not respond to OTC antihistamines
• resembles a target or bull’s-eye

A person should seek emergency help if they are having trouble breathing or have a swollen throat or tongue. These are symptoms of anaphylaxis, which can be fatal.

Hay fever typically causes respiratory symptoms in the nose, throat, and eyes. However, some people may find that their skin also reacts when their allergy symptoms flare up. This flare-up may cause a rash in the form of hives or worsen a preexisting condition, such as atopic dermatitis.

Other seasonal causes of skin rashes include heat rash, poison ivy, insect bites, and Lyme disease. If a person’s symptoms get worse or do not respond to OTC allergy treatments, they should see a doctor.

Do I Have a Hay Fever Rash?

Hay fever rash is a lesser-known and less common symptom of hay fever, otherwise known as seasonal allergies or allergic rhinitis. The same inhaled allergens that cause sneezing and watery eyes can cause itchy, red, inflamed bumps or welts across the skin. And though they are not a product of hay fever itself, rashes that often co-occur with such an attack may be called hay fever rashes as well.

This includes allergic contact dermatitis (rashes that occur when you touch an allergen—perhaps the same one that’s causing your stuffiness), as well as eczema rashes that are worsened by hay fever.

Brianna Gilmartin / Verywell

Causes

Hay fever rashes develop when the body mounts an immune response to otherwise harmless substances in the air, like pollen from blooming trees, weeds, grasses, and also dust and pet dander. (In fact, hay fever rash is sometimes called a pollen rash.)

When you inhale these allergens, mast cells in your body release a chemical called histamine into the bloodstream. As a result, you get the symptoms typically associated with hay fever: sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, etc. When histamine is released into the dermis (the lower layer of your skin), it causes a reaction in the skin, creating a red, inflamed, itchy rash.

Allergic contact dermatitis and eczema rashes are also associated with allergic rhinitis, though the reasons they occur differ from this.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis is a type of rash that develops when your skin touches a substance you’re allergic to. This reaction can happen completely independently of hay fever (say, due to an allergy to metal on a watch), but it can also occur along with it because of a shared trigger.

For example, you may sneeze when pollen counts are high. You may also develop a rash if you cut flowers from your garden. It’s easy to see how these two reactions can overlap as well, as allergens that can be inhaled are often on things you touch in your environment (think of a dusty table).

The amount of time that occurs between when you touch a triggering substance and when allergic contact dermatitis appears is variable. It can occur within minutes or develop hours or days after the exposure.

You may be surprised to know that you can develop a rash after having skin contact with a plant or substance you have been able to touch previously without developing a rash.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic dermatitis, better known by the common name eczema, is another type of rash that is closely linked to hay fever.

The association between eczema and hay fever is twofold. First, people with eczema are much more likely to also have hay fever and asthma. It’s part of what is called the “atopic triad,” or a group of allergic/hypersensitivity conditions that commonly appear together.

Secondly, hay fever can trigger a flare-up of eczema. Many people with eczema find their skin condition is worse during the prime hay fever seasons of spring, summer, and early fall.

It’s important to note that hay fever itself does not cause eczema, nor vice versa. Hay fever can, however, exacerbate eczema symptoms.

Symptoms

Rash is not a common symptom of hay fever, but it can happen occasionally. Some people are more prone to developing a hay fever rash than others. Hay fever can also make your skin feel generally itchy without causing a rash.

Hives

True hay fever rashes cause red, raised welt-like bumps called hives. Hives are extremely itchy and can occur anywhere on the body. They can range in size from as small as a pencil eraser to larger than several inches across.

Hives can also occur along with swelling of the skin (angioedema). Hives typically fade after several hours to days, but they can be chronic especially if one can’t avoid the offending allergens.

Associated Rashes

Allergic contact dermatitis causes red, itchy, blister-like bumps across the skin. The bumps, called vesicles, may ooze or weep. This rash may also be scaly and dry, especially if it is chronic or long-lasting. Allergic contact dermatitis develops only on areas of skin that came in direct contact with an allergen.

Eczema is different than true hay fever rash or allergic contact dermatitis in that it is a chronic skin condition. Eczema is red, itchy, or painful; the skin also looks and feels dry and scaly.

This condition appears in what are considered “typical” areas (the face, inner elbows, behind the knees, hands, and feet), rather than on areas that have come in contact with a trigger substance. Although eczema can develop at any age, it most often begins in infancy or early childhood.

Diagnosis

A physician can diagnose most rashes with a physical exam coupled with your medical history. There are other tests that can be done, such as a KOH prep test (AKA skin scraping) or skin biopsy, to rule out other possible conditions.

It’s always a good idea to see a doctor if you’re experiencing a rash for the first time.

Allergy testing may be necessary to determine what triggered your rash. If you don’t know what you’re allergic to a specialty doctor called an immunologist can perform certain tests to identify the culprit. This may include blood tests or skin patch testing.

Once you have identified the substance(s) you are allergic to you can take measures to avoid the substance in the future to prevent future problems. The more you are exposed to the triggering substance the more severe your symptoms may become.

Treatment

Many of the treatments that you normally use to control your hay fever symptoms can also be beneficial in preventing and treating associated skin rashes.

• Antihistamines, including fexofenadine and diphenhydramine, help relieve itching and are the first-line treatment for hives. If you are looking for an antihistamine that specifically helps skin rashes talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Antihistamines typically treat hives very effectively, but many rashes do not respond to antihistamines.
• Cold compresses, calamine lotion, or colloidal oatmeal baths can soothe irritated, itchy skin, no matter the cause.
• Topical steroid creams, including over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone, desonide, and clobetasol are common treatments for both eczema and allergic contact dermatitis. All topical steroids, including OTC products, should be used with care on the face and never used around the eyes. Seek advice from a physician before using an OTC topical steroid on a child.
• Use moisturizing creams several times per day, since dry skin makes itching and eczema feel worse. Choose one that contains emollient ingredients such as petrolatum, mineral oil, squalane, or dimethicone.
• Avoiding or limiting contact with the triggering substance is crucial. You may need to change your clothes after spending time outside, keep your windows closed when pollen counts are high, or take other precautions to help you avoid certain allergens.
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots), for severe allergies, may be an option that can reduce symptoms or even cure your hay fever. This treatment continues to evolve, making it more cost-effective, convenient, and less painful (ask your doctor about sublingual immunotherapy).

A Word From Verywell

Hay fever can trigger various skin rashes, each slightly different in the specific causes and symptoms. If you do have seasonal allergies, you will likely be more prone to developing allergic skin rashes. Fortunately, in most cases, these rashes can be managed. Talk to your doctor or allergist to get the most effective treatment plan for you.

6 ways to get rid of a hay fever rash

What is hay fever rash?

The immune system is a defense against the plethora of pathogens trying to buy real estate in our body, utilizing our resources and impacting the normal functions. The body can either manifest the rash when local pollen comes in contact with the skin, or it can happen even when pollen is inhaled or ingested through normal breathing.

The rash is often characterized as itchy red bumps spread out around areas that either came in contact with the pollen or may manifest elsewhere if the reach is more due to internal processes.

What are the triggers that cause individuals to experience hay fever?

According to the Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Society of Ontario, it’s estimated that 10-20% of Canadians are affected by allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as hay fever.

The pollen from one species in particular, known as ragweed, is considered to be the biggest culprit of hay fever symptoms. This species is a member of the Asteraceae family, highly prevalent across North America and capable of producing over a billion pollen grains each season. Other triggers of allergies can include certain foods, stings from a variety of insects, and even medications.

What options could help to alleviate the rash?

1. Vitamin D. Researchers have acknowledged the role vitamin D plays in dermatology given the synthesis and activation of precursors as the sun comes in to contact with the skin. In a 12-week study, participants suffering from chronic hives related to allergies were randomized to receive either a combination of three anti-allergy medications and 600 IUs of vitamin D while the other group only received 4,000 IUs of vitamin D. The culmination of the study saw the 4,000 IU group experience a 73% reduction in the severity of hives, while the medicated group only saw a 33% improvement with no further benefits past the first week. This is an interesting demonstration of the power of natural interventions as the study was funded by a grant from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology as well as the UNMC Clinical Research Centre.
2. Allergy relief. This homeopathic preparation utilizes plants from a variety of families to help educate the immune system. As we mentioned earlier, it’s the inappropriate reaction of the body to harmless allergens that are leading to systems such as the rash. A clinical trial conducted on humans in the Netherlands demonstrated that use of the product resulted in an 88.5% improvement in symptoms of allergies, especially in congestion. The benefit is that it comes in a nasal spray, protecting the mucous membranes of the nose and also comes in tabs to work from the inside out.
3. Marigold. Calendula officinalis is another member of the Asteraceae family originating out of southern Europe. Commonly used for the treatment of inflammatory conditions of the skin, this could prove to be a beneficial option for hay fever rash. The assessment report from the European Medicines Agency amalgamates many studies that demonstrates the benefits of marigold, even on small areas of broken skin for wound healing. What’s important to note though is should you already have a sensitivity to members of the Asteraceae family, this option is not recommended.
4. Quercetin. The polyphenol is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-allergy properties. Studies have shown that this agent has the ability to regulate the immune system and decrease the formation of antibodies in response to a harmless allergen such as that of ragweed. This in turn reduces the symptoms of allergies including the rash. Quercetin also helps to stabilize mast cells which release an agent known as histamine that contributes to the itchy sensation.
5. Oatmeal. Your mind may immediately jump to thinking we’re suggesting a large bowl full of oatmeal, but what is far more beneficial for the irritated tissue is an oatmeal bath. The oat formally known as Avena sativa, is in the family with barley, rye and wheat. Chemically speaking, the plant is highly concentrated in both starches and beta-glucans which provide a protective, water-holding barrier effect. There are also various phenol groups in the plant which are anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. A clinical trial conducted on 50 women showing moderate to severe dry skin demonstrated the use of oatmeal resulted in clinically significant improvements in skin dryness, moisture, and barrier.
6. Echinacea cream. As an herb, we’re very familiar with the ability of this plant to modulate the immune system which speaks to its use in fending off cold and flu. As a topical, this herb has been shown to help increase the amount of lipids present in the layers of the skin. This promotes the health of the barrier and makes it less likely that various pathogens or allergens enter the deeper layers, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. The alkylamides are the compounds that most heavily contribute to restoration of the epidermal barrier.

References:
https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessment-report-calendula-officinalis-l-flos-revision-1_en.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17373175/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20865844/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24507460/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25607907/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27272074/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28610718/
https://www.woundsresearch.com/article/9064

Allergies – Treatment – NHS

The treatment for an allergy depends on what you’re allergic to. In many cases, a GP will be able to offer advice and treatment.

They’ll advise you about taking steps to avoid exposure to the substance you’re allergic to, and can recommend medicines to control your symptoms.

Avoiding exposure to allergens

The best way to keep your symptoms under control is often to avoid the things you’re allergic to, although this is not always practical.

For example, you may be able to help manage:

• food allergies by being careful about what you eat
• animal allergies by keeping pets outside as much as possible and washing them regularly
• mould allergies by keeping your home dry and well-ventilated, and dealing with any damp and condensation
• hay fever by staying indoors and avoiding grassy areas when the pollen count is high
• dust mite allergies by using allergy-proof duvets and pillows, and fitting wooden floors rather than carpets

Allergy medicines

Medicines for mild allergies are available from pharmacies without a prescription.

But always ask a pharmacist or GP for advice before starting any new medicine, as they’re not suitable for everyone.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are the main medicines for allergies.

They can be used:

• as and when you notice the symptoms of an allergic reaction
• to prevent allergic reactions – for example, you may take them in the morning if you have hay fever and you know the pollen count is high that day

Antihistamines can be taken as tablets, capsules, creams, liquids, eye drops or nasal sprays, depending on which part of your body is affected by your allergy.

Decongestants

Decongestants can be used as a short-term treatment for a blocked nose caused by an allergic reaction.

They can be taken as tablets, capsules, nasal sprays or liquids.

Do not use them for more than a week at a time, as using them for long periods can make your symptoms worse.

Lotions and creams

Red and itchy skin caused by an allergic reaction can sometimes be treated with over-the-counter creams and lotions, such as:

• moisturising creams (emollients) to keep the skin moist and protect it from allergens
• calamine lotion to reduce itchiness
• steroids to reduce inflammation

Steroids

Steroid medicines can help reduce inflammation caused by an allergic reaction. 

They’re available as:

Sprays, drops and weak steroid creams are available without a prescription.

Stronger creams, inhalers and tablets are available on prescription from a GP.

Immunotherapy (desensitisation) 

Immunotherapy may be an option for a small number of people with certain severe and persistent allergies who are unable to control their symptoms using the measures above.

The treatment involves being given occasional small doses of the allergen, either as an injection, or as drops or tablets under the tongue, over the course of several years.

The injection can only be performed in a specialist clinic under the supervision of a doctor, as there’s a small risk of a severe reaction.

The drops or tablets can usually be taken at home.

The aim of treatment is to help your body get used to the allergen so it does not react to it so severely. 

This will not necessarily cure your allergy, but it’ll make it milder and mean you can take less medicine.

Treating severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)

Some people with severe allergies may experience life-threatening reactions, known as anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock.

If you’re at risk of this, you’ll be given special injectors containing a medicine called adrenaline to use in an emergency.

If you develop symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as difficulty breathing, you should inject yourself in the outer thigh before seeking emergency medical help.

Find out more about treating anaphylaxis

Treating specific allergic conditions

Use the links below to find information about how specific allergies and related conditions are treated:

Page last reviewed: 22 November 2018
Next review due: 22 November 2021

Hay fever – NHS

Hay fever is usually worse between late March and September, especially when it’s warm, humid and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest.

Check if you have hay fever

Symptoms of hay fever include:

• sneezing and coughing
• a runny or blocked nose
• itchy, red or watery eyes
• itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
• loss of smell
• pain around your temples and forehead
• headache
• earache
• feeling tired

If you have asthma, you might also:

• have a tight feeling in your chest
• be short of breath
• wheeze and cough

Hay fever will last for weeks or months, unlike a cold, which usually goes away after 1 to 2 weeks.

How to treat hay fever yourself

There’s currently no cure for hay fever and you cannot prevent it.

But you can do things to ease your symptoms when the pollen count is high.

Do

• put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen

• wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes

• shower and change your clothes after you have been outside to wash pollen off

• stay indoors whenever possible

• keep windows and doors shut as much as possible

• vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth

• buy a pollen filter for the air vents in your car and a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter

Don’t

• do not cut grass or walk on grass

• do not spend too much time outside

• do not keep fresh flowers in the house

• do not smoke or be around smoke – it makes your symptoms worse

• do not dry clothes outside – they can catch pollen

• do not let pets into the house if possible – they can carry pollen indoors

Get more tips on managing hay fever from Allergy UK

A pharmacist can help with hay fever

Speak to your pharmacist if you have hay fever.

They can give advice and suggest the best treatments, like antihistamine drops, tablets or nasal sprays to help with:

• itchy and watery eyes and sneezing
• a blocked nose

Call a pharmacy or contact them online before going in person. You can get medicines delivered or ask someone to collect them.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

• your symptoms are getting worse
• your symptoms do not improve after taking medicines from the pharmacy

Treatments for hay fever from a GP

Your GP might prescribe a steroid treatment, such as a steroid nasal spray.

If steroids and other hay fever treatments do not work, your GP may refer you for immunotherapy.

This means you’ll be given small amounts of pollen as an injection or tablet to slowly build up your immunity to pollen.

This kind of treatment usually starts in the winter about 3 months before the hay fever season begins.

Immunotherapy is a specialist service that may not be available everywhere.

What causes hay fever

Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen, typically when it comes into contact with your mouth, nose, eyes and throat. Pollen is a fine powder from plants.

Check the pollen forecast on the Met Office website

Video: hay fever advice

In this video, an expert explains how hay fever is diagnosed, as well as the symptoms and treatment.

Media last reviewed: 21 April 2020
Media review due: 21 April 2023

Page last reviewed: 04 February 2021
Next review due: 04 February 2024

Hay fever or hay fever | World of Health

The complex of allergic reactions to pollen of trees, flowers and grasses is called hay fever. Another name for this disease is hay fever. From April to May, allergy sufferers are annoyed by the pollen of alder, birch, hazel. In June, the body actively reacts to the flowering of cereals, and late summer and early autumn are the time of blooming of wormwood, which is also quite difficult to tolerate.

Symptoms of pollinosis

appear annually at a specific time, most often in spring and summer:

• tickling and itching in the nose, sore throat;
• choking, runny nose, cough, sneezing;
• depression, irritability, fatigue;
• swelling of the mucous membrane of the visual organs and nose;
• migraine attacks, loss of appetite;
• skin rashes;
• nasal congestion, impaired sense of smell;
• reddened itchy eyes, lacrimation.
• These symptoms may be accompanied by attacks of bronchial asthma.

Who is at risk

Most often, hay fever develops in children and young people. Mental stress is often the cause of the manifestation of hay fever. The impetus in this case gives a weakening and congestion of the immune system. Therefore, it was noticed: there are fewer patients suffering from pollen allergy in rural areas than in cities.
Heredity is the most important factor.If one parent suffers from an allergy, the likelihood of a similar disease in a child is 25%. If both the mother and father are allergic, the risk doubles – up to 50%. If the parents have no problems in this regard, the probability of hay fever in a son or daughter is only 10%. The risk of getting hay fever in a child increases if at an early age he is constantly in an environment contaminated with allergens. Viral diseases and unhealthy nutrition are at risk.

The level of this disease is also formed by climatic, ecological and geographical factors. In some regions of the Russian Federation, every third young woman suffers from hay fever.

There is another concept – “cross” allergy. During the period of seasonal exacerbations, it manifests itself in an impressive number of patients. For example: if during hay fever there is a reaction to birch pollen, there will be a “cross” allergy to peaches, hazelnuts, apples, carrots. This period lasts from April to the very end of May.If the reaction to the pollen of cereals, “cross” – to sorrel, food cereals. The patient will have the same type of allergy to honey, citrus fruits, sunflower seeds, if initially the body cannot normally tolerate the influence of wormwood.

Pollinosis treatment

The most effective way to deal with seasonal allergies is to avoid contact with the allergen. If signs of hay fever show up, you need to take the necessary measures in time.

It is difficult to miss the onset of the disease – a few minutes after going out into the street you start sneezing, and after a few hours you have a stuffy nose.A little later, the eyes begin to itch. At this stage, you need to see a doctor.

You will be offered a blood test for allergens and immune status, which can be taken all year round, as well as provocative tests, during which scratches are applied to the skin, on which minimal amounts of potential allergens are placed in order to track the response to what the body will show the most vivid reaction. It makes sense to carry out provocative tests outside the period of exacerbation, that is, after the “season” of your allergy is over.The tests are carried out independently of vaccination.

Specific immunotherapy is the most effective remedy in the fight against hay fever. The treatment regimen provides for the introduction of increasing doses of the allergen into the patient’s body. As a result of treatment, the sensitivity of the patient’s body to the allergen decreases. Specific immunotherapy can be administered concurrently with medication.

Prevention of pollinosis

If the disease has worsened, the rules are as follows:

• daily intake of calcium gluconate and antihistamines;
• daily wet cleaning and shower;
• refraining from walking in very dry weather, closed doors and windows during the day;
• after rain or at night – airing the room;
• rest – near water bodies where the content of the allergen in the air is minimal;
• during the period of remission, you should strengthen the immune system: go in for sports, temper, eat properly and balanced, and give up bad habits.And of course, visit an allergist every year.

The specialists of our Center will help you and your children to identify the allergen, prevent the development of cross-allergy and the transition of the disease to a more severe stage of the course, and will select an individual treatment plan not only with traditional medicines, but homeopathically.

Homeopathy allows you to define an individual approach to the treatment of a patient. With the help of homeopathy, we not only solve a specific problem, but also raise the level of the patient’s health as a whole, that is, we carry out a comprehensive improvement of the body.Our specialist in homeopathy will give an assessment and detailed advice in several medical areas, determine the cause of the disease and direct efforts to eliminate the cause, not the symptoms.

90,000 Hay Fever, diagnosis, treatment Articles

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis as medical professionals call it, is the most common chronic disease, affecting more than thirty percent of the population. It is formed for various reasons, but mostly it is pollen.

How is the process going? Pollen enters the human body, the human immune system recognizes the pollen as an allergen and produces antibodies, antibodies attack the allergens, resulting in the production of histamine. Histamine causes runny nose, eye irritation, and other allergy symptoms. In order not to develop this disease, you need to diagnose the disease in time. Hay fever is determined by an allergist, only with a full examination. The doctor should do skin tests for a more accurate diagnosis.Skin tests are carried out as follows: a scratch is made, an allergen is applied to the scratched area. The diagnosis is confirmed when the scratch site turns red or gives some other visible reaction.

Health professionals give a lot of different advice and recommendations, for example, you should refrain from a long stay in places saturated with greenery (forests, parks). Reduce the number of openings of windows, vents and doors in the room where the patient with allergies is.You should ventilate the room only after rain, or when there is no wind, but you should hang moistened gauze rolled up in several layers on an open window. When you return home, always change your clothes, take a shower at least twice a day, wash your hair as thoroughly as possible. Dry things after washing only in the room, but in no case on the balcony or outside the window. In the apartment to carry out daily wet cleaning. Take the medications prescribed by your doctor carefully and keep a diary of your condition, so it will be easier for the doctor to warn about the manifestation of allergies in the future.

If the allergist confirms the disease, then it will be necessary to carry out treatment in the following ways: in the morning you need to drink Super C and Quircetin. If you feel an attack, then you need to do the following: Instill Avamisom into the nose, drink Ksizal Bronchomunal or Klaretin, if the attack cannot be removed, then you need to inject with Suprastin 1 milliliter inside the muscle. Folk ways to remove an attack, drink hot tea, stir baking soda and salt with water, cover with a towel and breathe, take a bath with water and lower your feet into the water, or stir honey with alcohol and drink.But take in consultation with your doctors!

This disease usually occurs from spring to summer. The special period of this disease is summer. Because there are so many plants in bloom at this time of the year. Complications of this disease can be serious: in the absence of effective and adequate treatment for hay fever, the disease begins to progress, the symptoms become more pronounced, and the spectrum of significant allergens begins to expand, deterioration or lack of odor recognition begins.When these requirements are met, hay fever will gradually disappear from the human body. But in any case, you should always consult with your doctors.

90,000 What is hay fever or hay fever?

Pollinosis (hay fever) is a disease caused by sensitization (sensitivity) to pollen of various plants and is characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes, mainly of the respiratory tract and eyes.

This term was coined in 1819 by the English physician John Bostock, who every year at the same time in the summer, when he was making hay, developed similar symptoms: sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes.Hay fever is a misnomer. Firstly, with this disease, there is almost never a fever (increase in body temperature), and secondly, hay is not the only cause of such symptoms. In fact, hay fever is a common term used in everyday life for seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever (from the Greek Pollin – pollen).

It manifests itself:

• sneezing,
• watery nasal discharge,
• lacrimation,
• itching,
• and sometimes with swelling of the eyes,
• unpleasant painful sensations in the mouth and throat.

Allergic rhinitis is caused by wind-blown pollen from trees, various ear-bearing grasses and weeds, as well as mold spores that are present in the atmosphere at certain times of the year.

The role of pollen in the development of hay fever was finally proved by the English physician Blackley, who himself suffered from allergies. His experiments not only revealed the true cause of this disease, but also formed the basis for the development of skin and provocative tests.

Three groups of plants are known, the pollen of which causes the development of hay fever: trees, grasses and weeds.

There are similarities between the allergens of different types of pollen. Antigens are present not only in food grains, but also in other parts of plants (seeds, leaves, etc.). This is the reason for the appearance of cross food allergies and intolerance to phytopreparations in patients with pollinosis.

Some foods that cross-allergy occurs in people with hay fever:

For tree pollen: nuts (especially hazelnuts and almonds), apples, cherries, cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, carrots, parsley, celery, tomatoes (tomatoes), kiwi, raw potatoes.

To the pollen of cereal grasses: bread, bread kvass, flour products, semolina, bran, cereal sprouts, bread crumbs, ice cream, sherbet, rolled oats and some cereals (oats, wheat, barley, etc.), corn, sorghum, sausages, coffee substitutes, malt, beer, wheat vodka, sorrel.

To weed pollen: melon, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, halva, mayonnaise, watermelon, zucchini, eggplant, mustard, spinach, beetroot, absinthe, vermouth, Jerusalem artichoke, chicory, citrus fruits, honey

Skin tests or prick test are one of the most informative diagnostic tests for allergies, including hay fever.The essence of the method is that droplets containing allergens are applied to the skin of the forearm or back. Then, in the places where the droplets are located, the skin is pierced in such a way that the solution with the allergen penetrates inside. In a similar study called the Scarification Test , scars are made on a patient’s skin.

If the patient is allergic to any substance, then redness or swelling forms at the site of application of the allergen.The reaction develops within 15 minutes.

But it is necessary to test with pollen allergens outside the flowering season – preferably in winter. The test results are used by the doctor not only to confirm the preliminary diagnosis, but also to decide whether to conduct allergen-specific immunotherapy for a given patient.

For the treatment of hay fever, elimination therapy, drug treatment, ASIT therapy are used. Next, we will analyze what these terms mean.

• Measures for partial elimination (to reduce contact with the allergen) involve limiting walking in dry windy weather, banning trips to the countryside, wearing sunglasses outside. To prevent the ingress of plant pollen into living quarters, it is necessary to close the vents and windows with wet gauze, change clothes and take a shower with washing your hair when returning from the street. It is also necessary to follow a hypoallergenic diet that excludes foods with cross-allergenic properties.
• Medicines in this case do not cure the disease itself, but only relieve the symptoms of hay fever. Depending on the age, severity of the condition, the characteristics of the manifestation of hay fever in a particular patient, the doctor prescribes drugs for local or internal use, sometimes in combination, in order to help a person survive this period with less discomfort.
• ASIT-method or allergic immunotherapy involves injections containing allergens.The patient receives a series of injections with hostile allergens in a gradually increasing concentration. As a result, the body’s resistance to these allergens increases. To achieve a lasting effect, 3-5 courses of therapy are carried out or one course before the season. Its effect on hay fever reaches 90%. In recent years, ASIT therapy can also be carried out with preparations in the form of oral solutions.

More details about ASIT-therapy can be found in the article about this technique https: // www.mc21.ru/articles/allergology/3/
90,000 Medical experts told how to escape from hay fever

New “enemies” of immunity

Pollinosis, or hay fever, is a seasonal allergic rhinitis (runny nose) that occurs as a reaction of the body to pollen during the flowering of a number of trees and grasses. In general, allergies are not normal in themselves, as they are caused by harmless substances – pollen from flowering trees or animal hair, for example.

Why such a strange reaction? Because over the past 100 years, the level of hygiene has increased by an order of magnitude: water supply, sewerage, various face and body care products, medicines, etc. have appeared.Civilization has weakened the immune system: the threats that it has fought for millennia have become much smaller, so it “stood idle.”

However, our body could not come to terms with this, so it “invented” new enemies for immunity. Dozens of products and substances have been blacklisted, but pollen, animal hair and citrus fruits are in the lead.

It has long been noted that countries with less developed health care systems suffer much less from allergies than civilized ones.

In the risk group

Allergy manifests itself:

– swelling of the nasal mucosa,

– sneezing,

– sore throat,

– redness of the eyes, lacrimation,

– swelling , tongue,

– rash,

– itching,

– headache.

Usually, allergies appear in childhood, but there are often cases when it suddenly announces itself at the age of 30-40. We ourselves can provoke it, for example, by overeating with any product, self-medicating, “overdoing” with cosmetics and household chemicals, etc.

People whose parents or grandparents suffer from allergies, people with asthma, atopic dermatitis, conjunctivitis, rhinosinusitis, and otitis media are also at risk. Allergies can be triggered by infectious diseases or severe stress, after which the immune system “reprograms” and attacks ordinary things.

Pollinosis can also start with moving to a new place of residence (for example, from north to south), while traveling to exotic countries.

Once and for all

There are only two ways to prevent allergies.

First : Avoid contact with the allergen.

Second: to recover from allergies using the method of specific immunotherapy (injecting small doses of antigens into the body).

As a result of this therapy, two thirds of patients say goodbye to allergies forever, the rest of the effect of allergens on the body becomes insignificant.

Specialists of the Center for Medical Prevention warn allergy sufferers to self-medicate, “prescribing” antihistamines for themselves, as one is different.It may happen that you only aggravate the situation.

In addition, it is pointless to take medications as a preventive measure: they relieve symptoms, and do not cure, so if there is no reaction, then there is nothing to cure.

Three waves

The Krasnodar Territory is characterized by a high growth rate of allergic diseases, our region is recognized as one of the most allergenic in the country. In recent decades, the greatest increase in the incidence of asthma, hay fever and allergic dermatoses has been noted.The results of recent studies indicate a twofold increase in allergic pathology.

Every year about 35% of the population of the Kuban and its capital seek medical help with clinical manifestations and symptoms of allergies. Up to 20-25% of the population suffer from hay fever.

There are three waves of hay fever in the Kuban:

1st wave, spring hay fever. Begins from the moment of the thaw, the peak of development falls on April – early May.During this period, the pollen of birch, alder, hazel acts as an allergen.

2nd wave, spring-summer. Comes from May to June, during the flowering period of meadow grasses (timothy, fire, hedgehog, bluegrass, ryegrass). Its period often coincides with the flowering of poplar, so this tree is sometimes mistakenly considered an aggressive allergen. But in fact, poplar fluff does not cause allergies, but it carries pollen from flowering grasses over long distances.

3rd wave, summer-autumn . Falls in August, September, October, ends only with the onset of the first frost. Allergens are pollen of weeds (ragweed, wormwood, quinoa, weed sunflower).

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Where will they help?

Medical care for allergy sufferers in Krasnodar is provided by allergists at municipal polyclinics No. 3, 7, 9, 26. You can make an appointment with them in the usual way. On the basis of the city polyclinic number 3 on the street. Burgas, 37 for more than 30 years has been operating an interpolyclinic allergological office.

Here on weekdays from 8.00 to 20.00 in two shifts, specialists are given consultations, carry out specific examinations and prescribe treatment. To get to them, the patient needs to get a referral from his clinic doctor.

In the Regional Clinical Hospital No. 2, allergists are receiving appointments, on the basis of the Research Institute-Regional Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after prof. S.V. Ochapovsky Regional Allergy Center was organized. Medical assistance to residents of Krasnodar is provided in them in the presence of a referral from the polyclinic at the place of residence and research performed.

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Pollinosis: symptoms, diagnosis, causes, treatment

Pollinosis or “hay fever” is an allergic disease with which people of all ages most often seek help from an allergist. Pollinosis occurs in humans from contact with pollen from various plants and mainly affects the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract.In nature, very many types of plant or flower pollen have pronounced allergic activity, which in highly sensitive people, after contact with pollen, causes the appearance of a seasonal disease with a whole range of allergic reactions. But a huge number of people on earth may not experience any discomfort from contact with dusty plants. Is that from the presence of a pungent smell in a flowering plant, from which a person can sneeze a couple of times. But for people suffering from hay fever, the joy of the awakening of nature is overshadowed by the development of allergies.Many patients with symptoms of this seasonal illness completely disrupt the usual rhythm of life – they are unable to work, study, or even do their daily activities. Why is this happening?

Reasons for the development of pollinosis

An allergic reaction is, first of all, the reaction of the human immune system to the ingress of a certain foreign substance (allergen) from the external environment into the human body. With hay fever, pollen of plants acts as such a substance.An ordinary person who is not exposed to its dangerous effects does not observe any immune reaction when inhaling and exhaling pollen. But the immune system of a patient with hay fever, after getting the smallest pollen, even 10 microns, into the respiratory tract or on the mucous membrane of the eyes or on the skin, turns on the system for recognizing an allergic substance as some kind of pathogenic virus or bacteria, after which it starts from this ” harmful “agent to actively defend themselves – an allergic reaction or allergic inflammation appears.Allergy to pollen can have from 1 to 15-20% of the population, depending on the climatic zone and regional characteristics. Naturally, in the north they get sick less often, and more often in the south. The periods of exacerbation of hay fever are directly related to the periods of flowering of certain plants. An allergic reaction in patients manifests itself during the flowering of alder, birch, hazel, oak, the family of cereals, wormwood, ragweed and many other plants. The symptomatology of hay fever increases in windy and dry weather due to an increase in the concentration of pollen in the air.With the onset of wet and rainy weather, the amount of pollen decreases and the severity of the disease decreases. A significant role in the development of hay fever is played by a hereditary predisposition. It has been clinically proven that if both parents of a child are susceptible to allergic diseases, then the probability of an allergy in a child can reach 80%, if only one of the parents is allergic – 25-40%. In cases where parents did not have such a disease, the risk of developing allergic diseases is only 10%.

Symptoms and manifestations of pollinosis

The most common manifestations are symptoms of allergic rhinitis, of which are characterized by:

– prolonged sneezing – profuse mucous discharge from the nose

– itching in the nose

– perspiration in the oropharynx

– drainage of mucus along the back of the pharynx (“postnasal flow”)

– nasal congestion

In most patients, rhinitis is combined with allergic conjunctivitis :

– redness and swelling of the mucous membranes of the eyes,

– itching of the eyelids,

– photophobia,

– lacrimation,

– “sand in the eyes”.

Another manifestation of pollinosis can be pollen bronchial asthma , when appears:

– cough,

– shortness of breath,

– “wheezing” and / or “whistling” in the chest,

– suffocation.

Slightly less often with hay fever, itchy skin rashes (urticaria) or local edema (Quincke’s edema or angioedema) , separate manifestations of atopic dermatitis are observed.

Severity of hay fever

Depending on the symptoms, hay fever can be mild, moderate or severe .

In moderate-severe and severe cases, symptoms of pollen intoxication can be observed in the form of general weakness, malaise, headache, loss of appetite. In the case of inadequate treatment of pollinosis or with its severe course, complications of the disease may appear as a result of the addition of a secondary infection – purulent conjunctivitis, sinusitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia.

In some patients, a reaction to plant pollen may be accompanied by symptoms of the development of food allergy, and its manifestations will be year-round. For example, if a patient is allergic to tree pollen, then he may develop a reaction to the fruits of trees (apples, pears, peaches, apricots, plums, nuts, etc.), as well as to raw carrots and some other types of products. … This is manifested by the presence of a sore throat, discomfort in the throat, itching, swelling in the mouth and throat.

Sometimes hay fever and allergic rhinitis can be accompanied by the development of polypous rhinosinusitis. You need to know that the manifestations of seasonal allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma are observed not only with allergies to pollen, but also to molds (mold). A huge number of microscopic mold spores appear in the air from the beginning of sporulation – from March to mid-autumn.

Thus, hay fever can also occur in the context of year-round allergic rhinitis (persistent allergic rhinitis), when allergy to pollen is combined with allergy to non-seasonal allergens.

Very often, hay fever can be hidden under diagnoses “chronic rhinitis” or “vasomotor rhinitis” , which distracts from choosing the right treatment tactics.

Diagnosis of pollinosis

If you suspect the development of pollinosis, you must first of all seek qualified help from a therapist or allergist. It is very important to exclude the presence of diseases with a similar course. First of all, it is ARI (ARVI), acute tracheitis or bronchitis.It is important to remember that only an experienced allergist-immunologist with the help of modern diagnostic equipment can accurately diagnose and prescribe adequate treatment.

Treatment and diagnostics of hay fever at the National Medical Research Center of Otorhinolaryngology of the FMBA of Russia are successfully carried out by specialists of the Department of Allergology and Immunology. First of all, for the diagnosis of hay fever, the allergist-immunologist conducts a thorough collection and analysis of the patient’s history, a thorough examination.If necessary, the otorhinolaryngologist performs a rhinoscopy to determine the condition of the nasal cavity, its swelling and narrowing of the nasal passages.

In our Center, a specialist allergist performs complex allergy diagnostics for patients to clarify the causal allergen. Allergy examination is carried out using the most modern diagnostic methods. Skin tests can detect the allergen within 20 minutes after the start of the test.

Skin allergy testing has proven itself well for diagnostics of household allergies (allergies to house dust, microscopic mites, library or book dust), pet allergies (epidermal allergies), food allergies .

Skin tests are a safe and highly informative examination method. It is advisable to carry out such tests without exacerbation of an allergic disease. The so-called “prick testing” is carried out at the NMITS – this is the most modern method of skin tests. The advantage of “prick testing” in comparison with classical scarification tests is less trauma to the skin with a higher specificity of the reaction (ie, the nonspecific reaction of the skin to the scarification effect is excluded, the probability of a “false positive” result is reduced).

The technique of the test consists in applying small drops containing various allergens to the skin of the forearm. Then a minimal superficial puncture of the skin is performed (“prick” means an injection), and then, 20 minutes after application, a visual analysis of the reaction occurred. In the presence of an allergy, a blistering reaction occurs at the site of application of the culprit allergen. The size of the blister determines the degree of reaction.

Skin testing for hay fever patients should preferably be carried out in the autumn-winter period.It is recommended to carry out tests after stopping the use of antiallergic drugs, as while taking antihistamines, the skin becomes “blocked” and tests may show a false negative result. If necessary, the patient undergoes a blood test for the presence of allergic antibodies (immunoglobulins E, IgE) to a wide variety of allergens. This analysis can be done to patients of any age, regardless of the treatment being performed and the phase of the disease.

Peculiarities of carrying out allergic tests in children

Allergic tests are carried out for children who have reached 5 years of age.For babies under the age of five, we recommend carrying out another research method – a specific blood test for the presence of protein antibodies – specific immunoglobulins of class E, which are produced by the immune system in response to exposure to a certain type of pollen. Unlike skin tests, such a study can be carried out throughout the year, without paying attention to the intake of medications and the patient’s state of health. This study is the only allergic method for detecting hay fever in babies.

Pollinosis treatment

Is it possible to get rid of hay fever forever? Unfortunately, currently there is still no drug that can completely cure this disease. Modern medicine also cannot change the genotype that forms the disease in the patient. But it can significantly alleviate the suffering of a patient with hay fever. In addition, there is a special method of non-drug therapy that can significantly reduce or even prevent the manifestations of the disease, prevent the progression of the disease (in particular, the transition of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis to bronchial asthma), and in some cases remove the manifestations of hay fever for many years. The correct treatment for pollinosis is selected and carried out only by an allergist-immunologist .

In the Department of Allergology and Immunology of the Federal State Budgetary Institution NMITSO FMBA of Russia, the treatment of hay fever is carried out by experienced allergists-immunologists in accordance with the world standards for the treatment of allergic diseases. After a causal allergen has been identified, the patient must completely exclude or limit contact with this allergen. During the period of dusting of the specified allergen, the most radical method of treatment is to leave for another climatic zone, where this pollen does not exist (highlands, northern territories, etc.).or dusting of allergenic plants occurs at an earlier or later date. Despite the fact that this is the most effective way to avoid the manifestations of hay fever, it is not always possible to apply it in our everyday life. And then there is a need to take special antiallergic drugs during the period of manifestations of the disease. They can be both general (systemic) action – tablets, injections, and local action – nasal spray, eye drops, inhalation agents.

Allergologist-immunologist of the department makes each patient an individual prescription for taking medicinal therapeutic drugs, taking into account the patient’s age, severity and clinical manifestations of the disease, the presence of concomitant diseases.To date, the most successful and effective way of treating hay fever, which allows not only to influence the emerging symptoms of the disease, but also to make sure that seasonal allergy disappears for several years, or its manifestations become minimal – this is allergen-specific (ASIT) or specific ( SIT) immunotherapy.

ASIT is the only pathogenetic method for the treatment of hay fever. ASIT allows you to change the response of the immune system to the allergen, to make sure that contact with the allergen during the dusting season does not cause an allergic reaction of the body in the patient.This is achieved by dosed administration to the patient according to a specific method of increasing concentrations of the allergen – from the lowest, initially not causing any manifestations, to high concentrations. During ASIT, a restructuring occurs in the immune system and it ceases to react painfully to an incoming allergen. This type of treatment is carried out only under the supervision of a qualified allergist-immunologist, because it is not the drug that is introduced, but the source of the disease itself.

This treatment has a lot of nuances, which can be safe and effective only in the competent hands of a specialist.To achieve a lasting effect in accordance with international standards, treatment should be carried out for 3-5 years. In this case, various techniques are used. Possibly preseasonal administration of the allergen (subcutaneously, into the arm) for several months, 2-3 injections per week; it is possible to use an allergen of a prolonged nature, which is injected less often – at the stage of dialing a dose once a week, then once a month. It is possible to carry out sublingual (sublingual) ASIT, when the patient, according to a certain scheme, drips the allergen on his own at home under the tongue, and periodically comes to the allergist-immunologist to control and correct the therapy.This method is also applicable to small patients from 5 years of age.

The ASIT method is chosen by an allergist-immunologist, taking into account the individual characteristics of each patient, i.e. based on medical indications / contraindications and which method is more convenient for the patient. Do not treat hay fever on your own, do not use advertised “magic drugs”, which at best will not bring any effect of treatment, and in the worst case can cause your body and life irreparable harm!

Prevention of pollinosis

Prevention of the development of hay fever is simple:

– if possible, during the flowering period, move to another climatic area;

– during an exacerbation, unless absolutely necessary, do not go outside, exclude country walks, especially in windy weather;

– outdoor walks only in the evening, preferably after rain or cloudy weather;

– regular wet cleaning of the apartment, moistening window screens;

– removal of carpets, carpets, soft toys from living quarters;

– exclusion of any herbal medicine (treatment with herbal ingredients), adherence to diet, exclusion of honey and other beekeeping products, in case of allergy to tree pollen

– exclusion during the dusting season of any fruits of trees, raw carrots, in case of allergy to grass pollen

– exclusion of food grains from the diet (incl.including bread, cereals, bran, etc.), in case of allergy to compositae pollen

– unrefined sunflower oil, mayonnaise, halva, chicory, melons and gourds.

90,000 Tips if you have hay fever

Helpful Hints If You Have Hay Fever

Yearly hay fever or hay fever symptoms await many sufferers, and their number is growing from year to year. You can make your life a little easier by following the advice of experts.

Choose the right time of day for high activity

City dwellers playing sports should do this in the morning. At noon, the amount of pollen in the air reaches its highest level. In rural areas it is better to do this in the evening, here the air movement is not as intense as in the city. You should also protect the windows: a special anti-pollen net is sold in shops.

Protection of the body from pollen

When you come home, take off your outerwear in the corridor so as not to carry pollen around the apartment.It is better to rinse your hair in the evening before going to bed. A nasal spray from a pharmacy will help rid mucous membranes of pollen.

Replace the vacuum cleaner filter regularly

Vacuum cleaners and air conditioners with the so-called HEPA filter, as well as aquafilters, will reduce the amount of pollen in an apartment or in a car. Remember to change your filters from time to time.

Smart vacation planning

When pollen flies in your region, it would be good to leave it for a while. Those who have the opportunity to go on vacation should choose suitable areas where the flowering season begins later, you can prefer a vacation at the sea or high in the mountains.

List of food ingredients

Antibodies directed by the body against pollen can sometimes cause an allergic reaction to food. In this case, they speak of “cross-allergy”. For example, antibodies to birch pollen are activated by a protein in apples.

Take medicine in advance

Allergy symptoms must be treated to avoid the dreaded “allergic march” from hay fever to asthma. Modern anti-allergy medications are well tolerated and must be taken throughout the pollen season.
Don’t forget about yourself and your allergies so you don’t end up in an emergency.

90,000 Get diagnosed and treated for hay fever in Moscow, price

Doctors of the Allergology Department of the Clinical Hospital on Yauza have a modern diagnostic and treatment base that allows you to identify an allergen with a high degree of accuracy, as well as develop and implement an individual treatment program.

Allergy to pollen of plants (hay fever, hay fever) has a pronounced seasonal character and is exacerbated during the flowering period.Usually, patients with hay fever complain of eye and respiratory tract damage.

Symptoms of pollinosis

Pollinosis is usually seasonal in nature and appears during the flowering period of trees and grasses. It is at this time that the pollen of plants that are pollinated by the wind is in the air and is dangerous for people with hypersensitivity. Flowers that are pollinated by insects, as a rule, do not cause allergies.

The main symptoms of hay fever include the following:

• redness and itching of the eyes;
• lacrimation;
• runny nose, sneezing, nasal discharge;
• sore throat, cough;
• headache;
• if the patient suffers from bronchial asthma, the appearance of pollen can cause its aggravation.

Symptoms of hay fever are more pronounced in the morning, especially if the weather is hot.

Causes and pathogenesis of pollinosis

Plant pollen is the germ cells of plants that contain special proteins that act as the main irritating agents. Once in the respiratory tract, they cause a strong response from the body. A particularly pronounced reaction is given by the organism of urban dwellers, which is explained by poor ecology, which aggravates the course of allergies.

Among the factors that contribute to the development of hay fever, heredity plays a leading role. If one or both parents suffer from hay fever, then it is necessary to protect the baby from contact with potential allergens as long as possible.

For the first time, hay fever can appear at any age.

Diagnostics and treatment of pollinosis in the Clinical Hospital on Yauza

Symptoms of hay fever are sometimes similar to the symptoms of other diseases (in particular, acute respiratory infections and bronchitis), therefore one of the primary diagnostic tasks is to determine what caused the patient’s painful condition.

To identify an allergen, doctors of the Allergology Department of the Clinical Hospital on Yauza prescribe blood tests (including immunoglobulins), skin tests. Provocative tests can also be performed to determine the allergen as accurately as possible.

When contacting the Clinical Hospital on Yauza during an exacerbation of allergies, doctors develop an individual program of drug treatment. Ophthalmologists, dermatologists and other specialists of the clinic are also involved in consultations.