Iqbal Sheikh, a 16-year-old from Murshidabad in India, has spent most of the last five years submerged in a pond due to a mysterious skin condition that causes a burning sensation. His family has sought help from multiple hospitals and traditional healers, but nothing worked. The cooling water provides relief, so he has remained in the pond for half a decade.
Water-based technique provides relief
Clips have emerged showing Iqbal in the pond, eating snacks. According to Gulf News, although no one has diagnosed his illness, there may be hope. Anant Ambani, one of the richest people in India, has reportedly taken an interest in Iqbal and organised his travel to Mumbai, 1,300 miles away, for specialist evaluation.
Risk of pneumonia and similar symptoms
Health professionals are expected to conduct medical evaluations before creating a treatment plan. Time is a concern, as the constant time in water puts Iqbal at risk of pneumonia and he suffers from a continuous cough. While the condition is unknown, his symptoms are similar to erythromelalgia. The NHS defines this as a condition with symptoms including a burning sensation in the skin, warmth, or redness, mostly affecting the feet but also other parts of the body.
