Everyone knows someone who's allergic to dairy, or gluten, or nuts, or Jeremy Kyle (that's just me). It's mildly annoying for the person, as, depending on the severity of their allergy, they have to check everything they eat to ensure they don't get very sick or even die.
But imagine being allergic to virtually everything on the planet - even your own bodily fluids.
Credit: Barcroft
Natasha Coates, 22, suffers from Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, a rare immunological condition which can cause cardiovascular, dermatological, gastrointestinal, neurological and respiratory problems.
Essentially, Natasha can experience a range of painful and chronic symptoms because her mast cells are hyper-responsive to things like food or environmental conditions.
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She says: "Mast Cells, which live in your bone marrow and surround all your major organs are responsible for releasing things such as histamine.
"The cells in my body react inappropriately. So, for example, if I eat something that I am slightly allergic to it releases too much of the chemical.
"Reactions can vary. They can be anything from just feeling under the weather, itchy, very tired or they can be life-threatening like tongue and throat swelling."
Natasha has revealed that she's even allergic to her own tears and her scalp blisters when her hair grows.
While most people with allergies know to avoid certain foods, the 22-year-old's symptoms can vary on any given day. She told a story about how she could eat a cheese sandwich without any bother, but the following day, that exact same meal could kill her. Bloody hell.
Imagine not knowing whether the food you're about to put in your mouth will be delicious or hospital inducing. A bit like the trip to the kebab shop after a night out.
"I never know if I am going to make it. If I will be sleeping in my own bed or be in a hospital bed. Or even if I will survive to be honest," she says.
To ensure she stays as safe as possible at home, her mum keeps the place incredibly clean and makes anyone coming into the house wash their hands. Even a little bit of dirt or pollen could set off Natasha's symptoms.
Despite all the challenges she faces every single day, Natasha is an elite disability gymnast - which is pretty incredible and what a LAD. The young woman is currently ranked number one in the UK and has competed at the Disability British Championships.
Exercise also causes her syndrome to flare up, to the point where she can't even feel her limbs. However, she calls gymnastics 'therapy' and works to keep her sane.
Featured Image Credit: BarcroftTopics: Inspirational, Community, UK, Health