--- title: "10 Rare and intriguing allergies to make your characters stand out" url: "https://writing-games.org/extras/rare-and-intriguing-allergies/" canonical: "https://writing-games.org/extras/rare-and-intriguing-allergies/" type: "extras" published: "2023-09-07T13:27:00-05:00" modified: "2026-01-09T08:04:36-06:00" author: "Andruid" author_url: "https://writing-games.org/author/andruid/" author_bio: "Andruid (she/her) is a writer, roleplayer, storyteller, and nerd who tries to live by Bill and Ted wisdom, i.e. \"Be excellent to each other.\" She created Writing Games to share lessons learned and to introduce new players to the world of text-based games." author_same_as: - "https://x.com/the_andruid" - "https://www.youtube.com/@the_andruid" - "https://www.instagram.com/the_andruid/" - "https://github.com/the-andruid" - "https://bsky.app/profile/andruid.writing-games.org" - "https://www.threads.net/@the_andruid" - "https://mastodon.gamedev.place/@andruid" - "https://www.reddit.com/user/the_andruid" - "https://ko-fi.com/andruid" - "https://medium.com/@the_andruid" - "https://community.fandom.com/wiki/Special:UserProfileActivity/The_Andruid" publisher: "Writing Games" publisher_url: "https://writing-games.org/" categories: - "Supporter Extras" tags: - "Roleplaying" - "Storytelling" - "Writing" --- # 10 Rare and intriguing allergies to make your characters stand out Let's face it. Pretty much everyone has something that their body or immune system doesn't agree with in some way. While common allergies like pollen and pet dander can certainly add a layer of complexity to your characters, sometimes you might want to go the extra mile and give them something a bit more unique. Rare or unusual allergies can not only make your characters stand out but also offer interesting plot points or conflicts in your story or roleplay. ## 10 Rare and intriguing allergies Here are some intriguing allergies to consider for your next character, whether you're writing fanfiction, an RPG, or participating in a roleplaying game: 1. **Water** ([Aquagenic Urticaria](https://www.webmd.com/allergies/what-is-aquagenic-urticaria)): Imagine a character who breaks out in hives whenever they come into contact with water. This could make for some interesting scenarios, especially if the character is involved in a quest that requires crossing a river or sailing on a sea. 2. **Cold Temperatures** ([Cold Urticaria](https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/urticaria-cold/)): This is an allergy to cold air, water, or even ice. Your character could develop red, itchy hives when exposed to cold conditions. Think about the challenges and limitations this would impose, especially in a winter setting or a cold environment. 3. **Sunlight** ([Solar Urticaria](https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/what-is-solar-urticaria)): An allergy to sunlight can be both a blessing and a curse. While it might make your character excellent at stealth and night missions, it would also mean they have to avoid daylight, complicating any daytime adventures. 4. **Exercise** ([Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis](https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/886641-overview)): Yes, some people are allergic to exercise, or more specifically, the increase in body temperature that comes with it. This could be a fascinating flaw for a warrior or athlete character, forcing them to find alternative ways to maintain their physical prowess. 5. **Vibration** (Vibratory Urticaria): This is an allergy to vibrations, which means your character could develop hives from actions as simple as clapping their hands or riding a horse. This could make for some interesting challenges, especially in a high-stakes chase scene. 6. **Gold and Metals** ([Contact Dermatitis](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/contact-dermatitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352742#:~:text=Contact%20dermatitis%20is%20an%20itchy,up%20within%20days%20of%20exposure.)): While gold allergies are extremely rare, they do exist. This could be an intriguing flaw for a character in a fantasy setting where gold is not just currency but also a symbol of power and divinity. 7. **Ink** ([P-Phenylenediamine Allergy](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hair-dye-reactions/)): In a world where written contracts and magical scrolls are the norm, being allergic to ink could be a significant hindrance. It could also serve as a plot point where the character has to find alternative ways to communicate or record information. 8. **Leather** ([Chromium Allergy](https://www.news-medical.net/health/Chromium-Allergy.aspx)): In a medieval or fantasy setting where leather armor and accessories are common, imagine a character who is allergic to leather. This could force them to seek out alternative materials, which might be less effective or more expensive. It could also serve as a social marker, setting them apart from other warriors or adventurers. 9. **Human Touch** ([Dermatographic Urticaria](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17793-dermatographism-dermatographia)): Also known as "skin writing," this condition causes the skin to develop welts or hives when touched or rubbed. This could be a poignant flaw for a character who craves physical affection or needs to engage in hand-to-hand combat. It could also add a layer of complexity to romantic relationships within the story. 10. **Sound** (Auditory Allergic Reaction): While extremely rare and not fully understood, some people claim to have allergic reactions to specific sounds or frequencies. For a character in a musical or sound-rich environment, this could be a fascinating obstacle. Imagine a bard who is allergic to a particular musical note, or a soldier who can't stand the sound of clashing swords. By giving your characters rare or intriguing allergies, you can add an extra layer of depth and uniqueness to them. These uncommon flaws can serve as compelling plot devices, obstacles, or even comedic relief in your storytelling and roleplaying adventures. ## Writing about allergies respectfully At the same time, it's important to remember that these allergies are also **real-life challenges** that some people face every day. When roleplaying around these and other conditions, try to be mindful of the impact your portrayal could have on those who actually live with these allergies or medical issues. Avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or writing in a way that's likely to offend your audience. Your aim should be to enrich your story and characters, *not* to trivialize or stigmatize real-life experiences. For guidance on writing about various conditions, I find the [Disability Language Style Guide](https://cronkite.asu.edu/ncdj/disability-language-style-guide) to be super helpful and highly recommend it. Happy writing!