Aquagenic itch is an allergy to water that causes itching, burning, and tingling sensations on the skin. It can be difficult to diagnose and treat, but antihistamines, topical creams, and phototherapy can help relieve symptoms.
Aquagenic itch is the scientific term for an allergy to water. Signs of this condition develop when an affected person’s skin comes in contact with water and typically include itching and burning. In some cases, a person with this condition also feels tingling sensations on the skin. Signs of allergy can appear after contact with all types of water, including tap water used for bathing, pool or ocean water, or even rainwater and splashing puddles. Some, though not most, will also develop an itchy, bumpy rash.
When a person has an allergic reaction to water, they can experience many of the same symptoms common in those with other types of contact allergies. For example, an individual might develop redness and itching in the area as well as burning and tingling after skin contact with water. Contact allergies also often cause skin rashes, but that’s usually not the case when it comes to water allergies. Sometimes an itchy, bumpy rash develops, but this is less common than the other symptoms.
There are certain parts of the body that are more prone to show signs of an allergic reaction to water as well. For example, a person may be more likely to develop signs of an allergy on their trunk or back. Similarly, a person’s arms and legs may be more prone to exhibiting these symptoms than other parts of the body.
Sometimes diagnosing an allergic reaction to water can be more difficult than you might think. This is because doctors have to ask whether something other than water, such as the soap a person uses in the shower or bathtub, could be the cause. Similarly, doctors may wonder whether chemicals, such as chlorine, in the water are responsible, or even the temperature of the water. For example, in some cases, a person may actually have a reaction to cold water rather than the water itself.
Treatment for a water allergy can prove difficult as contact with water is a normal part of daily life for most people. Doctors may prescribe antihistamines and topical creams to prevent and relieve allergy symptoms, and may also recommend applying protective creams and oils to the skin before bathing. Also, a person might consider trying phototherapy, which is a treatment that involves the use of light, to desensitize their skin and reduce their allergic reaction to water.
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