Loren Montefusco, a 22-year-old from South Carolina, suffers from aquagenic urticaria, an extremely rare allergy to water that causes her to experience burning itch deep under her skin whenever she comes into contact with water. This condition, reported less than 100 times worldwide, forces her to avoid showering and bathing as much as possible, and she even "claws" at her skin to distract from the unbearable itchiness. Little is known about the rare condition, and treatments include antihistamines, UV light treatments, steroids, and bathing in sodium bicarbonate.
A 22-year-old woman from South Carolina suffers from aquagenic urticaria, a rare water allergy that causes intense itching and rash upon contact with water, including her own sweat. There is no cure for the condition, so she avoids bathing as much as possible and showers quickly when necessary. Even being in the ocean, hot tubs, pools, or her own sweat can trigger the allergic reaction. She has found support in a social media group of others with the same condition, which has helped her feel less isolated.
Tessa Hansen-Smith, a young woman from Fresno, California, is living with Aquagenic Urticaria, a rare condition that makes her allergic to water. She developed the allergy at a young age and has experienced worsening symptoms over the years. Water causes itching, rashes, and hives on her skin, and drinking it leads to a burning sensation in her throat and body. Tessa's positive outlook is supported by her family and friends, but she faces skepticism from others. Despite her challenges, she is determined to help others with rare conditions and has shared her story in a book and on social media. Tessa hopes to raise funds to contribute to her family's medical expenses and dreams of pursuing a nursing degree to approach patients with compassion and belief in their symptoms.
Tessa Hansen-Smith, a young woman from Fresno, California, is living with Aquagenic Urticaria, a rare condition that makes her allergic to water. She developed the allergy at a young age and has experienced worsening symptoms over the years. Water causes itching, rashes, and hives on her skin, and drinking it leads to a burning sensation in her throat and body. Tessa's positive outlook is supported by her family and friends, but she faces skepticism from others. Despite her challenges, she is determined to help others with rare conditions and has shared her story in a book and on social media. Tessa hopes to raise funds to contribute to her family's medical expenses and dreams of pursuing a nursing degree to approach patients with compassion and belief in their symptoms.
Tessa Hansen-Smith, a young woman from Fresno, California, is living with Aquagenic Urticaria, a rare condition that makes her allergic to water. She developed the allergy at a young age and has experienced worsening symptoms over the years. Water causes itching, rashes, and hives on her skin, and drinking it leads to a burning sensation in her throat and body. Tessa's positive outlook is supported by her family and friends, but she faces skepticism from others. Despite her challenges, she is determined to help others with rare conditions and has shared her story in a book and on social media. Tessa hopes to raise funds to contribute to her family's medical expenses and dreams of pursuing a nursing degree to approach patients with compassion and belief in their symptoms.
Tessa Hansen-Smith, a young woman from Fresno, California, has Aquagenic Urticaria, a rare condition that makes her allergic to water. She developed the allergy at a young age and has experienced worsening symptoms over the years. Water causes itching, rashes, and hives on her skin, and drinking it leads to a burning sensation in her throat and body. Tessa's positive perspective is supported by her family and friends, but she also faces skepticism from others. Despite her challenges, she is determined to help others with rare conditions and has shared her story through a book and appearances on the Dr. Oz show. Tessa uses her Instagram page to connect with others and offer support. She hopes to raise money to contribute to her family's medical costs and dreams of pursuing a nursing degree to approach patients with compassion and belief in their symptoms.
