Aquagenic Urticaria: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Prevention and More

The human body cannot function properly without water. And it has no adverse effects on most of those who try it. Some people, however, who suffer from Aquagenic Urticaria, don't share this benefit. Sufferers of this ailment break out in itchy hives and rashes as soon as their skin touches the water.

This disorder causes hives that can be induced by many different kinds of water, such as:

  • Rain 
  • Snow 
  • Sweat 
  • Tears
What exactly are the signs of aquagenic urticaria?

Rarely, the skin may break out in an itchy, painful rash known as an aquagenic hive when exposed to water. There is no specific location where the inflammation is more likely to emerge. Neck, arms, and chest are where you'll see it. After drying the skin, these symptoms should go away. People with this illness may suffer the following:

  • Inflammation of the skin
  • An unpleasant burning feeling
  • Lesions
  • Welts 
The following are some of the more severe side effects that drinking water can have on a person:
  • A rash that appears around the mouth
  • Swallowing and breathing problems
  • Wheezing
  • A person may also have additional symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting.
Where does this ailment come from?

Researchers have been unable to pin down a definitive reason for aquagenic urticaria. Not the water itself, but the chemicals added to it, such as chlorine, have been hypothesized to be the culprit.

The histamine released in response to this rash may cause allergy-like symptoms.
The immune system releases histamines to neutralize the offending material during an allergic reaction. Depending on the area of the body affected, these histamines can cause allergy-like symptoms.

How do medical professionals determine if a patient has aquagenic urticaria?

The symptoms of aquagenic urticaria will be evaluated during a physical examination performed by the doctor. The medical history will be reviewed, and the doctor may do a water challenge test, in which they apply a water compress heated to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) to the patient's upper body to see if it causes an allergic reaction. Within 15 minutes, you should start to feel the effects.

Aquagenic pruritus causes itching and irritation without causing hives or reddening; thus, the doctor will record the response to the water challenge test and compare it to the symptoms of aquagenic pruritus.

What therapies are available?

Aquagenic urticaria can only be managed, not cured. On the other hand, some treatments can help alleviate the symptoms, such as:

Antihistamines

Any kind of hives can be relieved with this. Since second-generation antihistamines produce less sleepiness, doctors prefer them. People often reach for cetirizine.

Application to the skin, such as using a cream

These substances prevent water from reaching the skin by forming a barrier first. They include petroleum-based preparations that can be applied before a bath or other water exposure. Specialists and medical professionals advise using these agents first, particularly for water-allergic youngsters, before resorting to antihistamines.

Therapeutic use of ultraviolet light

Light therapy, or phototherapy, is a frequent name for this treatment. Like the palms and soles of the feet, the skin is hardened by ultraviolet radiation to reduce its sensitivity to moisture.

Omalizumab

Despite being approved to treat asthma, this drug is also sometimes used for hives. In addition, some patients with aquagenic urticaria have reportedly responded positively to this drug. However, the medication is somewhat pricey.

Some steroid drugs, such as Stanozolol, have shown promise, and a category of drugs known as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) has also been linked to promising outcomes.

What can be done to stop future cases of aquagenic urticaria?

Avoiding water as much as possible is recommended for those who suffer from aquagenic urticaria. They should take extra care in wet conditions, such as when it's raining or humid outside, and limit the number of times they shower.

Conclusion

One form of urticaria and hives is called aquagenic urticaria. There is no solid evidence suggesting what triggers aquagenic urticaria. It is recommended that those with symptoms see a doctor to determine the best course of therapy, which may vary based on a "water test" challenge. Persons who suffer from this condition should avoid getting into touch with water to keep the condition from worsening.

Dr. Shreyansh Talesra is a top Skin specialist in Kandivali who is providing complete skin treatment for many years at his clinic AMI Skin & Hair Clinic at very affordable cost. If you are searching for the Best dermatologist in Mumbai who provides skin related treatment then Dr. Shreyansh Talesra is the right doctor for you. 

For Appointment & Enquiry Call us now 022-28860900/ 9106183902 & Visit Online - https://www.amiskinhairclinic.com/


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