What should you know about hay fever and hives?

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, affects the nose and upper airways after exposure to airborne allergens. It may cause sneezing, congestion, an itchy throat, and watery eyes. Hives are raised, itchy patches or welts that can appear suddenly, move to different areas, and fade while new ones form. Food, medicines, infections, heat, pressure, or contact triggers can cause hives; pollen exposure is not the only possible explanation.

Having hay fever does not identify the cause of a rash. Note what happened before the hives appeared, how long each welt lasted, and whether swelling affected the lips, eyelids, hands, or feet.

Avoid scratching, use cool compresses, and wear loose clothing over irritated skin. A pharmacist can advise on an antihistamine and check it is suitable with your age, pregnancy status, and other medicines. Keep a simple record of foods, medicines, activities, heat, and new products around each episode. Continue hay fever measures such as reducing pollen exposure if nasal symptoms follow outdoor activity, but do not assume every rash is pollen-related.

Get emergency help if hives occur with swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble breathing, wheezing, faintness, confusion, or repeated vomiting. Seek medical advice for a rash that is painful, bruised-looking, blistered, associated with fever, or lasting without improvement. A clinician should review recurrent episodes and any suspected medicine or food trigger.

Ask whether the rash looks like hives, whether a medicine or infection could be involved, how to use an antihistamine, and whether your hay fever symptoms need a separate treatment plan.