Rash from tank

The skin on my hands is tough enough that it doesn't matter, but the soft skin of my under forearm doesn't like hammer euphyllia at all. I get itchy red bumps when I brush against it sometimes. A OTC topical steroid cream like hydrocortisone clears it right up.

I'm allergic to ALL SEAFOOD, yet I've vever had an issue handling live marine organisms. So far only touching bare flesh makes me itch.


Ironic, I know, Sucks big time, I know.

 

I didn't have any issues for the first 15 years I was in this hobby. Then when my inwall tank matured, I was allergic to that tank only. In fact, my reactions got worse and worse and worse. Finally I figured out I'm allergic to Euphylliids (Hammers, torch, bubble, frogspawn). When I designed that tank, I didn't have any front access so I was always having to reach in from my fish room. The corals stung me (even though I didn't feel it) and gave me a rash. I decided, ok, let's not touch the Euphlliids.....but it doesn't really matter. If my arms are in the water with a Euphylliid, I get minor hives. If I touch a Euphlliid, I get a rash.

 

OH, and I do have an epi-pen because I'm allergic to bees.

 

The rash is much better today, still a bit itchy, but should be gone by the wknd. Hopefully I'll get my aquagloves soon, anyone know of a nori clip with an extension that I can attach to the outside of the tank and have it hang in the tank? I don't think I'll be sticking my hands in there to attach/remove the clips anymore.

 

Reading on this is making me a little scared now...

 

No need to be scared, just take the necessary precautions if you think it could affect you. Guess I should have known since I'm allergic to shell-fish, but I just never paid any attention to it because it's been so long and I never had a reaction before...lesson learned.

 

well i dont get a rash by putting my hand in my tank but a part of my arm kinda burns a little

 

I am allergic to my open brain coral, I didnt have a problem untill I added that to my tank. just touching the water burns. I bought gloves that go all the way to my arm pit when i am done I wrap in a towel and wash glove in the sink.