allergic to cold water

[justineo]

About 15 years ago when I was swimming in an outdoor pool, I got a really bad rash around my waist with raised itching lumps.  Since then I have been unable to get wet, with cold water, without the itching starting.  Especially if its a hot day and I am hot.  It happens if I try to swim in the sea or if I'm caught in a summer shower.  My doctor gave me a course of anti histamine but it had no effect.  Any ideas?

Thanks a lot

[Solarjunkie]

I recently read an article in a magazine about one of the world's rarest allergies - to water. So it seems you may not be alone.

[landie]

I have a similar allergy but to chlorinated water. The raised bumps you speak of are similar to nettle rash and called Urticaria.

I'm ok when swimming in sea water, It's just indoor swimming baths that get me.