Everyone knows that people can be allergic to pollen, dust, medication, insect stings, and even certain foods. Multiple medications and other treatment methods exist for these common allergens. However, some people have allergies that are truly odd and have no existing cure.
Check out our list below of six of the most bizarre allergies out there:
1. Water
Yes, you read that right. Water, good ol’ H2O, can actually cause people with aquagenic urticaria to break out in hives wherever their skin comes into contact with water! These hives itch constantly and can be painful. While there are some topical and oral medications that can ease this itching, being allergic to water has no known cure.
2. Coins
If you’ve ever experienced a rash after handling coins, you might have a nickel allergy. This is actually fairly common. People with this allergy are advised to avoid coins, certain jewelry, metal in clothing, and any other type of metal surface that might contain nickel. When contact cannot be avoided, gloves are advised. Medications are available to treat acute symptoms and patch testing by an allergist can confirm a nickel or metal allergy.
3. Being Touched
There are plenty of people out there who just don’t like human contact, but some are actually allergic to it! Their skin being touched and scratched triggers histamine release, causing hives and itching. This is called dermatographism and is not uncommon. There is no cure for this allergy, but antihistamines can help with the symptoms.
4. Sunlight
Here in Florida, sun exposure is typically a daily occurrence. But, a few people have to avoid sunlight altogether – Dracula style – to prevent an allergic skin reaction called solar urticaria! This allergy is also due to a histamine release and may be helped with antihistamines, loose clothing, and an assortment of wide-brimmed hats.
5. Exercise After Eating
We’ve all heard someone humorously claim to be allergic to exercise before, but there are some people out there who actually are! The increased heart rate and blood flow that results from exercise can actually cause an allergic reaction to certain foods eaten just before the workout, called food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis. Sufferers are advised to avoid eating before exercise, only exercise with a partner, and carry an epinephrine pen in case of an anaphylactic attack. An allergist can help with diagnosis and treatment.
6. Sweat
Yet another way people can be allergic to exercise is if they’re actually allergic to their own sweat. Any activity that increases body temperature and leads to sweating, such as taking a hot shower or being outside on a hot Florida day, can trigger an itchy, bumpy rash. This is called cholinergic urticaria. Sufferers are advised to minimize activities that cause sweating. Treatments are also available to help with symptoms.
Don’t Suffer From Allergies, No Matter How Strange
If you’re dealing with unusual allergies, trust the experts at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates of Tampa Bay to help you with a treatment plan designed to identify triggers, minimize symptoms, and break the control that allergies have on your life. Call us at (813) 971-9743 or request an appointment online to see one of our licensed allergists today!
