Aquagenic urticaria is a condition where exposure to water causes a rash that can be itchy and painful. It is not a true allergy and has no cure, but can be managed with medication and avoiding water. Some patients may see a decrease in sensitivity over time.
Aquagenic urticaria is an unusual dermatological condition characterized by the appearance of a rash after exposure to water. The rash can appear within minutes of exposure to water and can last up to two hours. It is common for the rash to be itchy and painful, which can cause extreme discomfort to the patient. There is no cure for aquagenic urticaria, although medications may sometimes be prescribed to manage it, and the condition can be congenital or acquired. Some patients have an onset after medical treatment for another condition, for example, and find that their sensitivity to water diminishes over time.
This condition is sometimes described as a “water allergy,” but that’s not entirely accurate. Histamine responses don’t always appear to be involved in aquagenic urticaria, meaning an allergic reaction may not occur in all cases. Research seems to suggest that people who have this condition are simply extremely sensitive to substances in undistilled water, including ions that are naturally present along with additives like chlorine.
When someone with aquagenic urticaria is exposed to water, red hives appear on the skin. A patchy rash can appear anywhere water has come in contact with the body and it can itch or burn. Antihistamine medications don’t reduce the rash, although some topical medications can relieve itching and swelling. The rash will clear up on its own as long as the patient stays dry.
A doctor can diagnose aquagenic urticaria by exposing a patient to plain and distilled water and noting the responses. Distilled water shouldn’t cause a reaction. Once diagnosed, the patient must focus on managing the condition. Things like showers and baths usually need to be brief, while the patient usually can’t engage in activities like swimming. Patients may also be sensitized to perspiration and may be advised to refrain from sweaty activities and to stay cool on hot days so as not to sweat.
As discussed above, some patients with aquagenic urticaria find that their sensitivity to water decreases over time, which may allow them to engage in more activities. As this condition is rare, it is important for patients to inform healthcare professionals of the situation and, for young children, counseling teachers and healthcare professionals about aquagenic urticaria is also recommended. Patients may also consider carrying a medical alert card with information about their condition so that, in the event they experience a medical emergency, healthcare professionals are alerted to their sensitivity to the waterfall.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
