If you are like most people, you probably know about the most common allergies like pet dander or peanuts. But many people suffer from very rare allergies to things that are sometimes required to stay healthy and go about a normal life. While these types of allergies are rare, you can miss them if you aren't aware of them. Here are five strange things that you can be allergic to and ways you can cope.
1. Water
Being allergic to water means you get a skin reaction whenever you touch it. That means you break out whenever you bathe or swim. However, many people with "water allergy," or aquagenic urticaria, can usually drink water. In very rare cases, some people complain of throat problems or irritation.
2. Sunlight
Allergies to sunlight are different from sunburn. With this condition, you get hives whenever you are out in the sun. Experts suspect it's the ultraviolet rays that are the issue. Medications and some types of sunblock and sunscreens can help. Choose your sunscreens carefully as some of those can also cause an allergic reaction. Also, keep your skin covered and wear a hat as much as possible.
3. Exercise
Allergy to exercise is different than other conditions like exercise-induced asthma. Exercise-induced asthma is usually caused by an irritation to the lungs. With exercise allergy, some people experience life-threatening anaphylaxis. This problem often arises if food is consumed before exercise, while others do not have a food connection. You can also be allergic to sweat and get itchy hives where it accumulates the most.
4. Touch
Some people have an allergy to touch. When they are touched, or even when they touch or scratch themselves, they can get hives. The reaction is most likely to happen when the skin is pressed. Some people can write their name and draw things on their skin. The reaction is often temporary, and antihistamines can help.
5. Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit is very healthy and nutritious. But if you have certain pollen allergies, then you may have a serious reaction to it. You could experience throat swelling, nausea, diarrhea, and even sneezing. Which fruits you are allergic to depend on which pollen allergies you have. For many people with this allergy, cooking the fruit will lessen or eliminate the reactions.
One of the hardest things about living with a rare allergy is the reaction you get from other people. However, don't let these reactions stop you from visiting an allergist for allergy testing and consultation. These allergies are rare, but your doctor should be able to determine whether these are the actual cause of your allergic reactions.