Scared to Eat: Conquering Anxiety Around Food Allergies

Woman, 25, Is Allergic To Water: 'My Scalp Would Be Bleeding After Showering'

A 25-year-old woman from Fresno is allergic to water, a rare condition that causes her to break out in welts and hives — even from her own tears and sweat.

"I would come out of showers and have huge welts on my skin, and my scalp would be bleeding after showering," Tessa Hansen-Smith told ABC-30 about her allergy, Aquagenic Urticaria, which she developed when she was 8 years old.

The allergy "is a rare condition in which urticaria (hives) develop rapidly after the skin comes in contact with water, regardless of its temperature," the National Institute of Health says. And while its causes are unknown, "it most commonly affects women." 

Her mom, Dr. Karen Hansen-Smith, is a family medicine physician and the first person who realized her daughter had a water allergy — after years of testing by specialists. 

"I feel a little guilty as a mom for not having seen when she would get out of the shower that she had hives, and figuring it out way earlier that it was a water issue," she told ABC-30.

Tessa Living Waterless Instagram

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Tessa says if she drinks water, or eats anything with a high water content, she feels a burning sensation — so she mostly drinks milk, as its water content is counterbalanced by fats and proteins.

As for showering, she shared on Instagram that "I've cleaned my body with wet towelettes designed for it here and there, but even then those hurt."

While she avoids activities that cause her to sweat and explains "I can keep body odor to a minimum by shaving and using deodorant where appropriate," Tessa says that she does sometimes need a shower even though "I don't do a whole lot that makes me very dirty, because I can't."

"Standing in a shower for more than 5 minutes, while also trying to not pass out as I hyperventilate while there's water hitting me, is not a relaxing self-care experience like it can be for others," she explains.

Tessa Hansen-Smith.

Tessa Living Waterless Instagram

Because it's such a rare illness — it's estimated that less than 250 people worldwide have Aquagenic Urticaria according to the ABC report — Tessa says people are often skeptical, and try to test her allergy, as was the case when she was an undergrad at University of California's Davis campus.

"When I did tell people about it in college, I would have people try to purposely splash water on me, or I would have people who would throw ice cubes at me," Tessa said.

She moved back home when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, and managed her condition by staying mostly indoors — until recently, when she was so dehydrated she developed ischemic colitis, which the Mayo Clinic says happens when "blood flow to part of the large intestine is temporarily reduced."

Tessa Hansen-Smith.

Tessa Living Waterless Instagram

While hospitalized for her ischemic colitis, Tessa experienced complications, explaining on Instagram that "this led to multiple superficial blood clots and at least one deep blood clot in my right arm."

The hospitalization also left Tessa needing physical therapy to recover — and left her family with staggering debt.

"We are now struggling to pay my medical bills and make ends meet," she wrote in a GoFundMe established to help pay their current and future costs.  

And while she's explained on Instagram that "I'm not getting any healthier because my condition just progresses," Tessa is still looking to the future and hopes to become a nurse. 

"I hope that I can go back to school again, I hope that I can get a job again," she told ABC-30. 

"I hope that I can kind of find a sense of normalcy in life again."

How To Get Rid Of An Allergic Reaction On The Face

Allergic reactions on the face can cause raised welts, swollen lips, and watering eyes. Using antihistamines and avoiding common triggers, like pollen, animal fur, and perfumed cosmetics, may help manage symptoms.

People can often treat and prevent their allergies once they know what is causing them. For example, if it becomes clear a certain facial cream is causing an allergic reaction, stopping its use may cease all symptoms.

However, the skin on the face is more sensitive than most other parts of the body, so there are many possible causes of facial allergic reactions.

This article looks at the symptoms and causes of allergic reactions on the face and how they can be treated and prevented.

Allergic reactions occur when the body's immune system mistakes a harmless substance, such as food or pollen, for something dangerous and tries to fight against it. This causes the body to create a chemical called histamine, which triggers allergy symptoms.

The symptoms of an allergic reaction differ depending on the trigger substance, otherwise known as an allergen.

A person could develop a rash in one area after using face cream, while someone inhaling pollen could have a widespread rash.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction on the face can include:

a rash or hives

puffy, raised areas of skin

small, discolored spots on the skin

an itchy, stinging, or burning sensation

swollen lips and eyes

swollen tongue

red, itchy eyes

watering eyes

dry or cracked skin

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may develop within seconds or minutes or gradually over several hours. Symptoms are usually mild but, in rare cases, can cause anaphylaxis, which is a life threatening condition.

Learn more about what allergic reaction rashes look like here.

Treatment depends on the type of allergy and the location and severity of the symptoms. The main treatments include:

Antihistamines

Antihistamines can reduce the swelling and itchiness of rashes and hives on the face. They can also help with symptoms such as watering eyes, stuffy nose, and breathing difficulty.

If a person knows they will be in contact with an allergen, they can take an antihistamine beforehand to prevent or reduce an allergic reaction.

Antihistamines are available as tablets, creams, eye drops, and nasal sprays.

Corticosteroids

Creams, sprays, and eye drops that contain corticosterone can help to reduce inflammation. They can open up the airways in the nose to help with breathing difficulties.

Moisturizers

Over-the-counter or prescription emollients can help moisturize dry skin and reduce itching. They also form a film that protects against allergens.

Cold compress

A cool, damp cloth can relieve itchiness and reduce inflammation. These can be placed on the skin whenever necessary to ease discomfort.

Immunotherapy

For severe or persistent allergies, a doctor may recommend immunotherapy. Here, a person is gradually exposed to an increasing dose of an allergen for up to 3 years so that the body can get used to it. This can reduce how severe and how long the symptoms last.

Usually, allergic reactions can be prevented by taking antihistamines before coming into contact with allergens or by avoiding the allergens.

Other prevention strategies include:

Food: Carefully read food labels and inquire about ingredients before handling or eating.

Pets: Limit contact with pets and regularly clean the space they inhabit.

Pollen: Avoid grassy and woodland areas if prone to hay fever.

Dust mites: Use allergy-proof duvets and pillows to reduce the risk of dust mite contact.

Mold: Keep rooms and wardrobes dry and well-ventilated to reduce mold spores.

A person should see a doctor If they have severe, recurring, or worsening allergic reactions. The doctor will examine the symptoms and take a medical history, including other allergic conditions and family history.

If the allergy is severe or the cause is unknown, it may be necessary for a doctor to refer someone to a specialist clinic. Possible allergy tests include:

skin prick testing

blood tests

patch testing

elimination diet

challenge testing

Allergies are also more likely to occur in people who have:

other allergic conditions, such as asthma or eczema

a family history of allergies or allergic conditions

Allergic reaction symptoms will begin to lessen once a person ceases contact with the allergen. In most cases, symptoms will occur within minutes of exposure and will typically resolve within a few hours, if not quicker.

Speak to a doctor for severe, worsening, or recurring allergies. A very severe reaction could be a sign of anaphylaxis, which requires emergency medical attention

Many things can cause an allergic reaction on the face. Most reactions are mild and can be treated with an antihistamine.

Preventing allergic reactions largely involves taking antihistamines and avoiding known allergens.

Allergies In Children: Expert Lists Common Triggers, Reactions, And Management Tips

Allergies in children have become more common in recent years, affecting millions globally. They can cause a range of reactions, from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Parents and caregivers should understand the most common triggers, symptoms, and management strategies for allergies. We spoke to our expert Dr Chandra Sekhar Singha, Consultant, MBBS, MD - Paediatrics, Madhukar Rainbow Children's Hospital, who listed triggers of allergies and how to manage them.

Allergies in children occur when their immune system overreacts to a substance that is normally harmless. This can lead to various symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, hives, and difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions can occur anywhere in the body, such as the skin, eyes, stomach lining, nose, sinuses, throat, and lungs. These are the areas where the body's immune system cells are located to defend against germs that are inhaled, ingested, or touch the skin.

Common Triggers Of Allergies

Dr Singha listed common triggers of allergies as follows:

Food Allergies

Some of the most common food allergies in children include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, and fish. Symptoms of food allergies can range from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis.

Environmental Allergens

Dr Singha said, "Children can also develop allergies to environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mould, and pet dander. Seasonal allergies are common in people with allergies to pollen."

Insect Stings and Bites

Bee stings and insect bites can cause allergic reactions in some children, leading to symptoms, such as swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing in severe cases.

Medications

Dr Singh added, "Certain medications, such as antibiotics and Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), can also trigger allergic reactions in children. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies before starting a new medication."

Also Read: From Itchy Skin Rashes To Swelling In The Mouth, Warning Signs Of Wheat Allergy

Common Reactions To Allergies 

According to Paediatrics Child Health, around 30-35% of children are impacted by allergic diseases, and the number of kids with these conditions has been going up in the last few years. We asked Dr Singha about the common reactions to allergies and here's what he said:

Skin Reactions

Common allergy symptoms include hives, eczema, and itching. These can appear as red, itchy rashes or swelling.

Respiratory Symptoms

Allergies often affect the respiratory system, causing symptoms, such as sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing, and wheezing. Moreover, it can even trigger asthma attacks in severe cases.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Food allergies can cause stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea shortly after eating the allergenic food.

Anaphylaxis

Dr Singha said, "This is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction that can affect multiple organs in the body. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention."

Also Read: Toddler Food Allergy: How To Know Your Toddler Is Allergic To Certain Foods

How To Manage Allergies

Allergen Avoidance

The primary strategy for managing allergies in children is to identify and avoid allergens. Dr Singha said, "This means carefully reading food labels and informing schools and caregivers of any dietary restrictions for food allergies. On the other hand, environmental allergens may require measures, such as using air purifiers and allergen-proof bedding covers."

Medications

Dr Singha noted, "Antihistamines and decongestants can help relieve mild allergy symptoms. For severe allergies, epinephrine auto-injectors are essential for immediate use in case of anaphylaxis. Also, allergy medications should be prescribed and administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider."

Immunotherapy

In cases of severe allergies with frequent or life-disrupting symptoms, an allergist may recommend allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or oral tablets). This treatment can help desensitise the child's immune system to specific allergens over time.

Emergency Action Plan

Dr Singha highlighted, "Children with severe allergies should have an emergency action plan in place. This plan should outline the steps to take in case of an allergic reaction, including how and when to use an epinephrine auto-injector."

Bottomline

Dr Singha concluded, "Allergies in children are a growing concern, but with proper management and prevention strategies, children with allergies can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Understanding common triggers, recognising symptoms, and implementing effective management techniques are crucial steps in ensuring the well-being of children with allergies."

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you notice any allergic reactions.]

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