What are the most common hay fever symptoms and what is the treatment?
AROUND one in five people will be affected by hay fever during their lifetime, with symptoms ranging from everything to constant sneezing and itchy skin. Some people will even experience itchy skin, which can become irritable if you have been in contact with certain pollen. While may people suffer from sneezing and blocked noses during hay fever season, it can be brutal for those who have sensitive skin. If you are prone to hay fever, you may find that irritable and itchy skin is part of the package. Often rashes can be caused by allergens (such as pollen) coming into direct contact with the skin, but they can be the consequence of a number of allergic reaction besides pollen. It is important to understand where a skin rash comes from, in order to treat it properly. There are ways to keep itchy skin at bay and that includes washing your bedding regularly to get rid of any pollen or dust that might be lurking. Experts also say that you should shower if you've been out and about in order to remove any pollen that might had attached itself to your skin. A reaction can usually happen within minutes of someone being exposed to an allergen. Symptoms include:  Sneezing  A runny or blocked nose  Red, itchy or watery eyes  Wheezing and coughing  Headaches  A red, itchy rash  Worsening of asthma or eczema symptoms  Most reactions are mild but sometimes a severe reaction called anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock can occur. This is a medical emergency and needs urgent treatment. Top tips for hay fever sufferers Here are some remedies you can turn to if you suffer with hay fever 1. Go to your pharmacist - they can help with the right treatment for you 2. Wear sunglasses - this stops pollen getting in 3. Take a shower - this stops pollen sticking to you 4. Use a balm - this creates a pollen 5. Have a pollen-free space 6. Pollen can cause hay fever sufferers to develop rashes on the skin, which can look red and raised in mild cases, or blisters and cracked skin in more severe incidences. Those who suffer dermatitis rashes may experience allergic reactions throughout spring and summer. They can cause great discomfort to those who experience them, and if they do not respond to over-the-counter medicine you should seek further help. Treatment for hay fever can include taking antihistamines to prevent an allergic reaction, or corticosteroids (steroids) to help reduce swelling and inflammation. You can usually get over-the-counter medication from your pharmacist, but if symptoms are persistent, it could be worth speaking to your GP for a prescription. Hives occurs when high levels of histamine are released in the skin, and pollen and plants can be a trigger. Your pharmacist can advise if antihistamine tablets are appropriate for your case. Your GP may prescribe corticosteroids, menthol cream or stronger antihistamines.