Archive · 25 Jun 2025
Aquagenic Urticaria: The Rare Allergy to Water
Imagine being allergic to water!
That's what happens to people with aquagenic urticaria.
When water touches their skin, it causes red, itchy bumps and a burning feeling.
It's a very rare condition, with less than 100 people known to have it.
Doctors don't know exactly why this happens, but they think it's the skin reacting to water.
To find out if someone has it, doctors do a water test.
There's no cure, but medicine and special creams can help.
People with this condition have to be careful about water, even sweat and tears can cause issues.
Aquagenic urticaria is a rare condition where contact with water triggers hives, welts, and burning sensations.
Fewer than 100 cases have been documented worldwide.
The exact cause of the condition is unclear but may involve a hypersensitive skin reaction.
Diagnosis is confirmed through a water challenge test.
Treatment involves antihistamines, barrier creams, and phototherapy; lifestyle adjustments are also needed.
- Who
- People who have aquagenic urticaria experience allergic reactions to water.
- What
- Aquagenic urticaria is a rare condition causing allergic reactions to water contact.
- When
- No specific date is mentioned.
- Where
- The condition is discussed globally, with specific mentions of cases and studies in India.
- Why
- The exact cause is unclear, but may involve a hypersensitive skin reaction.
Patient experience
Medical perspective
Lifestyle Impact
Patient experience
Patients struggle with daily activities due to water exposure.
Medical perspective
Medical professionals focusing on diagnosis and treatment.
- Condition Name
- Aquagenic Urticaria
- Symptoms
- Red hives, welts, burning sensation
- Affected by
- Contact with water, sweat, and tears
- Diagnosis
- Water challenge test
- Treatment
- Antihistamines, barrier creams, phototherapy
- Rarity
- Fewer than 100 documented cases globally