Allergic to water... Aquagenic Pruritus

I have been suffering for the last 2 months about this problem, it started when I stopped taking Accutane; it seems that after my skin is exposed to water, such as swimming or bathing, my skin starts to have this prickly, itchy, burning sensation only on my arms and legs that lasts from 10 minutes to 20 minutes. The oddest thing is that I dont see any visible rash nor redness or any signs of irritation. I have been experimenting what to do to have some kind of relief but none seems to help or work. I have changed my soaps, shampoos, detergents, lotions, even tried to bathe on cold, hot or tepid water. I even started taking antihistamines 30 minutes before bathing time but none is helping. This condition frustrates me because I cannot enjoy the things I used to do- like taking a bubble bath, soak my self in a jacuzzi or take a swim. Is there anything I could do to stop or somehow resolve this problem? Please help...

[Caryopteris]

I would think if it is water it would be chlorine or something else that is added to the water.  You could get a whole-house water filter perhaps.

Also check for food allergies to the most common allergens:  Gluten (wheat, etc), dairy, nuts, soy.  Stopping consumption of a food you are allergic to should calm down all your allergies.

Good luck.

[Dr Rajput]

Hi, from your history it is clear that you having allergy to water or its contents. Very less has been known about water allergy. It can be due to exposure to allergens present in water in your area or due to ions in non-distilled water.

If you are allergic to water following measures will help you-
- Stay away from water as long as possible.
- Avoid going in rain outside.
- Keep yourself cool during summer as even sweating will cause reaction.
- Try boiling water before bath and as well can try hot water bath. Avoid showers.
- Dry yourself immediately as soon you finish your bath.  

If you want to enjoy the shower/water bath/ swimming then you can try anti histamines against prescription prophylactic i.e. one hour before the exposure.

I hope this will help you. Take care and regards.