Ask the expert

Your health questions answered by Dr Melanie Wynne-Jones

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Q EACH SPRING, I GET AN ITCHY RASH ON MY NECK AND ARMS, WHICH GOES BY ITSELF. COULD THIS BE AN ALLERGY?

A This sounds like polymorphic light eruption (PLE), caused by sensitivity to ultraviolet light in the sun’s rays (which can penetrate windows and thin clothes). It affects over 10% of us, is more common in women and people with fair skin and often disappears as we get older.

The red rash may look prickly, gritty, blistery or resemble ‘targets’ and is very itchy; you may also feel slightly unwell.

Your GP can check your rash isn’t infectious or caused by other conditions. It will gradually clear up as the skin toughens up, but this wears off during the winter, which is why it comes back. You may be able to prevent PLE by using sunscreen that allows only short daily UV exposure. Try a mild steroid cream for a week or so and taking over-the-counter antihistamines.

Severe cases are treated with small doses of UV light and/or vitamin D supplements.

Q MY HUSBAND IS TOO EMBARRASSED ABOUT HIS ‘MAN BOOBS’ TO GO TO HIS GP. IS THERE ANY EFFECTIVE TREATMENT?

A So-called ‘man boobs’ contain fat cells, but also breast and fibrous tissue, which feel firmer to the touch. Excessive breast tissue (gynecomastia) is common in males at birth (due to the mother’s oestrogen), in teenagers (fluctuating hormones) and in older men as levels of testosterone start to fall after the age of 50.