Did You Know!
Water Allergy Is a Real Medical Condition
Although it sounds impossible, a rare disorder called aquagenic urticaria causes some people to develop painful hives, intense itching, or a burning sensation whenever water touches their skin. This reaction can happen after a shower, swimming, sweating during exercise, crying, or even getting caught in the rain.
Scientists still don’t know the exact cause. One theory is that water reacts with substances on the skin to trigger an immune response, rather than the water itself being the allergen. Because the condition is so rare, only a small number of confirmed cases have been documented worldwide.
People with aquagenic urticaria often have to limit water exposure and may use antihistamines or barrier creams to reduce reactions. Drinking water is usually not a problem because the reaction occurs primarily when water contacts the skin.
