8 Rare and Strange Allergies
Have you ever disliked something so
passionately you claimed to be allergic to it? ‘I’m allergic to the gym’
is only a joke for most people, but not from those who suffer from
Exercise-induced anaphylaxis, an actual, diagnosed allergy to...
exercise! Yes, this is a condition that actually exists. That and the
rest of the strange allergies listed below, that are so rare and
strange, they almost sound made up. Turns out, the things that seem the
most obvious and ordinary could really pose a threat to others.
1. Exercise
This type of allergy has been reported in
medical literature only about 1,000 times since the 1970s. In its mild
form, this rare condition may cause hives after exercising, but if one
suffers from a severe form of the allergy, physical activity can lead to
anaphylaxis, a dangerous condition in which your blood pressure drops
suddenly and you have trouble breathing.
This reaction can be triggered by eating
certain types of foods before exercising, such as peanuts, shellfish,
tomatoes, corn, and wheat. However, anaphylaxis is not necessarily
food-related and can also be triggered by humidity, extreme
temperatures, and hormonal changes. In any case, sufferers of this
allergy must always exercise with a partner, and will often carry an
adrenaline shot with them, to be taken in case of an emergency.
2. Vibrations
For people who are physically allergic to
vibrations, also known as vibratory urticaria, any contact with objects
like a motorcycle, lawnmower, or a washing machine on full power can
lead to an allergic reaction. That might include swelling, itching,
headaches, and blurry vision. These symptoms aren’t life-threatening,
but they definitely are a nuisance and they can happen several times a
day.
Luckily the condition is extremely rare, and a recent study, conducted
by the National Institute of Health, uncovered that there is a genetic
reason for it. The study is significant because it can be applied to
more common allergens as well, such as pollen and different foods.
3. Human Touch 
For most people, there is nothing more comforting than a hug. But for
people suffering from Dermographism, the situation is a bit different.
Dermographism is yet another type of physical urticaria. The name
literally translates to ‘skin writing’ because one’s skin becomes so
sensitive to touch, they can write their name clearly on their skin with
a fingernail.
Approximately five percent of the world population suffers from this
condition, but they rarely seek medical help. The rash goes away on its
own in 15 to 30 minutes from its appearance, and allergy medication can
help ease the itching.
4. Water 
You know that feeling when you come out of a hot shower, and your skin
feels scorched and reddish? People suffering from aquatic urticaria, or
water allergy, feel that way after every shower. Changing the
temperature has no impact, in fact, any contact with water - like
getting caught in the rain or breaking a sweat - will cause an allergic
outbreak.
In extreme cases, even drinking water can cause rashes around the mouth,
inflammation in the throat, and difficulty in swallowing and breathing.
Once the body dries, symptoms should fade away in 30 to 60 minutes.
There is currently no cure for aquatic urticaria, but antihistamines can
help alleviate symptoms, and in severe cases, a shot of adrenaline can
be used to reduce swelling and hives.
5. Coins
If you get a rash on your hands from
handling loose change, then you are probably allergic to nickel sulfate.
People with such an allergy are also advised to stay away from jewelry,
hairpins, lighters, and even certain door handles. As you can tell, all
of these are very commons everyday objects.
As pestering as that may sound, the best thing sufferers from this
allergy can do is avoid the aforementioned shiny items, take
antihistamines after exposure, and perhaps apply a topical steroid creme
when a rash develops.
6. Steak
Most people know ticks cause Lyme disease,
but not many are aware that one certain tick, called the Lone Star tick,
is to blame for developing an allergy to red meat.
Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) is a carbohydrate found in the
cells of many animals that humans eat, like cows and pigs.
Once a tick bites a human after having bitten a mammal with that
carbohydrate, the person’s body goes on to develop antibodies in
response. Therefore, anytime that person consumed red meat this antibody
response is triggered. No one is born with this condition, it can only
be developed, and it’s more common in adults than children. Lone Star
ticks are most prevalent in the eastern and southeastern United States.
7. Cold Temperature
Cold urticaria is very rare but potentially
dangerous, in case a sufferer of the allergy is suddenly exposed to an
extreme drop in temperature, for example, diving into icy water. Doctors
confirm this uncommon condition by hiding an ice cube on a patient’s
skin for several minutes and waiting for a reaction.
Managing this type of allergy mainly consists of prevention - avoiding
the exposure of large areas of skin to the cold, and never swimming
alone.
8. Electricity
People who suffer from electro-sensitivity
claim they experience headaches, ringing in the ears, fatigue, and more
every time they come near electrical fields. This condition is extremely
difficult to manage nowadays since electrical fields are generated by
cell phones, microwaves, computers, and power lines. Essentially all of
the things that surround us and govern our lives daily.
The interesting part is that electro-sensitivity is actually a highly
controversial topic. Most people who suffer from it are self-diagnosed,
and years of controlled studies have come up with no evidence that
electromagnetic fields cause these symptoms. The World Health
Organization claims electro-sensitivity is not a medical diagnosis,
despite many individuals fiercely claim the opposite.