A model’s hay fever symptoms turned out to be a life-threatening allergy to everyday items such as crisp packets and makeup,
When Gracie Pfaff began having frequent bouts of itchy rashes, it was initially due to pollen in the air or a minor reaction to her family’s laundry detergent.
6
However, she soon realized it was more serious when she began to suffer from hives and swelling and saw her throat close up.
Eventually, the 22-year-old realized that her reaction would happen whenever she came into contact with aluminum.
“Even simple interactions can be complicated, like explaining to someone why I can’t pick up a dropped can of soda,” said the digital marketing consultant and nonprofit founder.
Gracie said the allergy made her “very cautious.”
“I’ve gotten into the habit of carrying gloves in my bag for situations where I might need to handle a can briefly,” she said.
My hand started to blow up like a balloon, then my lips doubled in size and my eyes became swollen shut.
She now has to check all food labels for “hidden aluminum additives” and is tired of her friends’ makeup.
“When I book modeling jobs, I have to bring my makeup kits for the artists to use, so I don’t react,” she said.
“Even with tap water, traces can remain, which is why I have to use filters.
“I have to completely avoid aluminum foil and some kitchen utensils on a daily basis.
“I really have to be hypervigilant about what my body comes into contact with.”
Gracie, from Tennessee, USA, says she was a “healthy child” with no allergies.
She visited several health specialists, but said many had not heard of the allergy before she was officially diagnosed at age 17.
6
6
Since then, she has had to conduct her daily life carefully as this could be fatal.
Gracie said: “If I ingest it, my throat, lips and eyes swell.
“If I touch it, I will break out in hives and swell up.
“Even low levels of exposure can cause problems such as brittle hair and nails, as well as fatigue.”
‘TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE’
One day, Gracie’s allergies came to a head when she grabbed a bag of tortillas — which had a foil lining — without thinking.
“A few minutes later, my hand started to blow up like a balloon, then my lips doubled in size and my eyes were swollen shut,” she said.
“I could barely breathe.
“My father, trying to help, offered some medicine, but it also contained aluminum.
“It was a terrifying experience and showed me how to take this allergy seriously.”
6
6
How to know if you are allergic to aluminum
Aluminum allergy is relatively uncommon.
But if you suspect you are allergic to it, pay attention to your reactions after contact with products containing aluminum, such as deodorants, antacids or vaccines.
Symptoms of an allergy can include redness, itching and swelling at the site of contact, or more generalized reactions such as hives, itching on other parts of the body or even anaphylaxis in extreme cases.
If you notice these symptoms consistently after exposure to aluminum, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional.
They may recommend patch testing, a diagnostic procedure in which small amounts of aluminum are applied to the skin under controlled conditions to observe an allergic reaction.
Identifying an aluminum allergy is essential to controlling symptoms and avoiding triggers.
Gracie keeps antihistamines on hand in case of a reaction; but she says more awareness is needed as it can be difficult to spot the signs.
Now, she shares her daily life and challenges on TikTok in hopes that people will become more understanding.
She added: “Just because an allergy is uncommon doesn’t mean it’s any less serious.
“I have eliminated most aluminum from my home and always speak up if necessary.
“Pay attention to standards.
“If you notice rashes, itching, or other unexplained symptoms, take note.
“It’s important to be aware before it becomes debilitating – and in some cases, potentially fatal.”
What are the symptoms of anaphylaxis and what should you do?
Symptoms of anaphylaxis happen very quickly.
They usually start within minutes of coming into contact with something you are allergic to, such as a food, medicine, or insect bite.
Symptoms include:
- swelling of the throat and tongue
- difficulty breathing or breathing very quickly
- difficulty swallowing, tightness in the throat, or hoarse voice
- wheezing, coughing, or noisy breathing
- feeling tired or confused
- feeling weak, dizzy, or faint
- skin that feels cold to the touch
- blue, gray or pale skin, lips or tongue – if you have dark or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or the soles of your feet
You may also have a swollen, raised, or itchy rash.
Follow these steps if you think you or someone you are with are having an anaphylactic reaction:
- Use an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) if you have one – instructions are included on the side of the injector.
- Call 999 for an ambulance and tell them you think you are having an anaphylactic reaction.
- Lie down – you can lift your legs and if you have difficulty breathing, raise your shoulders or sit up slowly (if you are pregnant, lie on your left side).
- If you have been bitten by an insect, try to remove the bite if it is still in your skin.
- If your symptoms do not improve after 5 minutes, use a second epinephrine auto-injector.
Do not stand or walk at any time, even if you feel better.
Source: The National Health Service
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
