KM Viray
7. Aquagenic Urticaria or “Water Allergy”
Since the human body is mostly made up of water (not to mention our surroundings), it’s a very odd idea to find that there are actually some people who are allergic to water. Aquagenic urticaria makes hives develop after the skin comes in contact with water. This may be set off by simple activities like bathing, sweating, or swimming. Even the rain can trigger this once water touches the skin.
Technically, the term “water allergy” isn’t really true, but the immediate hypersensitive responses in the skin after direct stimulation or contact with water substances are similar to allergic reactions, hence the name.
Some treatments include taking antihistamines, consuming mast cell stabilizers (medications that help stabilize and strengthen mast cells), filtering and avoiding water, undergoing UV therapy, modifying vitamins and diet, and using hypoallergenic products.
