Hives After Contact With Water
Aquagenic urticaria is an extremely rare condition in which skin develops small, itchy hives within minutes of touching water. The temperature of the water does not matter, and sweat, rain and swimming pools can all trigger it. It is not a true allergy to water itself.
Symptoms
Tiny welts, often 1 to 3 millimeters, appear on the neck, upper body and arms after water contact and fade in 30 to 60 minutes. Some people feel only burning or itching.
Aquagenic Urticaria vs Aquagenic Pruritus
In aquagenic pruritus, water causes intense itching without any visible rash. In aquagenic urticaria, hives are visible. The two are managed differently, so a doctor’s evaluation matters. Both can overlap with heat-related causes; see cholinergic urticaria.
How It Is Diagnosed
A doctor may apply a compress at body temperature to the skin for about 20 minutes and watch for wheals. Because the condition is so rare, other diagnoses are considered first.
Managing Flares
- Keep showers short and pat skin dry quickly.
- Apply a barrier cream before water exposure, as advised by your doctor.
- Use non-sedating antihistamines as directed.
Learn more about urticaria treatment.
When to Call 911
Call 911 right away if hives or swelling occur with difficulty breathing or swallowing, a tight or closing throat, a swollen tongue, lips or face, wheezing, faintness, or a sudden feeling of impending doom. Use an epinephrine auto-injector first if one has been prescribed to you, then call for emergency help.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your symptoms last more than a few days, keep coming back, cover large areas, or interfere with sleep or daily life. Dr. Tiffany Young’s Hives Treatment Center in San Francisco offers online and in-person consultations for patients with aquagenic urticaria.
Related Reading
You may also find these guides helpful: causes of hives and hives symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquagenic Urticaria
Can you really be allergic to water?
Not in the usual sense, but a rare reaction to water contact exists.
Is it dangerous?
Usually not, though it can be very uncomfortable and disruptive.
Can I drink water?
Most people can. Reactions are triggered by skin contact.
Get Relief for Your Hives
Water-triggered symptoms deserve a careful workup. Visit our hives treatment page to see the latest treatment options for your outbreak.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.
