19 February 2024 , 13:46
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If food allergies and skin conditions weren't irritating enough, imagine not being able to take a shower because you are allergic to water.
One brave woman named has opened up online about her incredibly rare skin condition which means a relaxing bath or fresh shower can be "one of the most uncomfortable experiences".
Kym, who shared how she bathes on her TikTok page @everydaywithkym - where she shares lifestyle content - admitted she has to "limit herself" when it comes to water contact.
Kym said she can only come into contact with water for five minutes or less. "Anything longer than that could potentially put me in anaphylactic shocks," she explained.
The content creator suffers from aquagenic urticaria - a skin condition that causes her skin to flare up, turn red, and develop itchy, painful hives after exposure to water. Various water sources can trigger the condition, including sweat, tears, snow, rain, seawater, and freshwater. "My body is itching, it's burned, it is covered in hives," Kym said.
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Kym also said drinking water makes her feel sick. According to the Allergy and Asthma Network, in severe cases, the condition can cause wheezing and shortness of breath. Sadly, there is no cure for the condition so those suffering have to take extreme care.
Kym said: "I know all of this sounds crazy but bare with me. It's just one of the most uncomfortable experiences. I try to avoid anything that has water as the first ingredient." She explained that she has a strict process for helping cool her body down by applying a number of itching lotions and itching sprays.
Thousands of TikTok users rushed to the comments to react to Kym's video. "Man, I really need to be more grateful," said one individual.
"I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy," said another. Another wrote: "Omg, I couldn't imagine being allergic to water.
Another added: "Omg I can't believe you've got to go through this! Sending you so much love and healing!"
A fith commenter said: "This happens to me but I can't ever figure out what is wrong with me! But this sounds like my symptoms."
Do you have an unusual allergy story? Get in touch via Lucy.Marshall@reachplc.com.