My hay fever symptoms turned out to be an allergy to every day items like crisp packets, makeup and drink cans

A MODEL’S hay fever symptoms turned out to be a life-threatening allergy to everyday items like crisp packets and makeup,

When Gracie Pfaff started experiencing frequent bouts of itchy rashes, she initially it down to pollen in the air or a minor reaction to her family’s washing powder.

However she soon realised it was more serious when she started suffering from hives, and swelling, and saw her throat close up,

Eventually, the 22-year-old realised her reaction would happen whenever she came into contact with aluminium.

“Even simple interactions can be tricky, like explaining to someone why I can’t pick up a dropped soda can,” the digital marketing consultant and nonprofit founder said.

Gracie said the allergy has made her “very cautious”.

“I’ve gotten into the habit of carrying gloves in my purse for situations where I might need to handle a can briefly,” she said.

My hand started blowing up like a balloon, then my lips doubled in size and my eyes were swollen shut,

She now has to check every food label for “hidden aluminium additives” and be weary of friends’ makeup.

“When I book modelling 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 be present, so I have to use filters.

“I have to avoid foil and certain cookware daily completely.

“I truly have to be hyper-vigilant about what my body comes into contact with.”

Gracie, from Tennessee, US, says she was a “healthy kid” with no allergies.

She visited multiple health specialists but claimed that many hadn’t heard of the allergy, before being officially diagnosed aged 17.

Since then, she’s had to navigate her daily life carefully, as it can be life-threatening.

Gracie said: “If I ingest it, my throat, lips and eyes swell up.

“If I touch it, I’ll break out in hives and swell.

“Even low levels of exposure can cause problems, such as brittle hair and nails, as well as fatigue.”

‘TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE’

One day, Gracie’s allergy came to a head when she grabbed a bag of tortilla chips – which had an aluminium lining – without thinking.

“Just a few minutes later, my hand started blowing up like a balloon, then my lips doubled in size and my eyes were swollen shut,” she said.

“I could barely breathe.

“My dad, trying to help, offered some medications, but that contained aluminium, too.

“It was a terrifying experience and it showed me how seriously to take this allergy.”

Gracie keeps antihistamines on hand in case of a reaction; but says more awareness is needed since it can be tricky spotting the signs.

Now, she shares her daily life and challenges on TikTok with the hopes that people will become more understanding.

She added: “Just because an allergy is uncommon, doesn’t mean it’s any less serious.

“I’ve eliminated most aluminium from my home and I am always sure to speak up if needed.

“Pay attention to patterns.

“If you notice rashes, itching or other unexplained symptoms, take note.

“It’s important to be observant before it becomes debilitating – and in some cases, life-threatening.”