Aquagenous urticaria, an extremely rare form of physical urticaria, appears in response to water at both cold temperatures and hot temperatures. It is also sometimes referred to as water urticaria and aquagenic urticaria.

Like many other forms of urticaria, some people describe it as an allergy; however, it is not due to histamine releasing, which makes it unique. Aquagenous urticaria causes an extremely painful reaction to the body of the patient when in contact with water.

Water urticaria usually causes the skin to itch and burn after being exposed to water. Hives may also develop on the patient's skin, which are itchy, raised bumps. The patient may feel pain, which usually lasts between 10 minutes to two hours. Taking a shower may result in soreness and dry eyes. Usually, contact with hot water tends to expedite the formation of hives. The patient may feel out of breath or experience swelling in the throat while drinking water.

The symptoms reappear if the skin comes in contact with any form of water. The patient's own or someone else's perspiration can cause a reaction; therefore, it is advisable to stay in a cool environment in the summer to avoid sweating as much as possible. Tears on the patient's cheeks can also cause pain.

If you are suffering from aquagenic urticaria, try your best to stay out of the rain and carry an umbrella when you go out to ensure that you won't get wet. Cleansing the body can produce pain so severe that patients may take very short showers to reduce the severity of the pain.

Although there is no proven treatment for aquagenic urticaria, dermatologists recommend staying out of water of any kind as much as possible. The patient should take short showers, stay cool, and avoid rain to help relieve suffering. Certain antihistamines, Zostrix, and other types of medications can be consumed to help ease the burning sensation.