Posted By Chris Packham Has the doctor prescribed any treatment? If so what? The only way to determine whether it is an allergic reaction is by means of an appropriate test (prick or patch test) carried out by a dermatologist or experienced occupational physician. It might well not be allergic but an irritant reaction. The two can look very much the same. Or it might be a combination of the two, possibly from two different sources. Both types of reaction are common to plants. However, they can also occur as reactions to the chemicals used to treat the plants, so a proper diagnosis is essential if the problem is then to be managed. Long sleeved clothing can be a two-edged sword. On the one hand it might prevent contact. However, unless impervious (and I certainly would not reommend that at this stage) it could act as a reservoir, absorbing whatever is causing your problem and holding it in contact with your skin. Some form of oversleeve might be better to protect your forearms might be better. Hope this is of some help. If you need any more get in touch. Chris