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Cold Urticaria
- DOUGH GOOD
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
Cold urticaria is an allergy-like reaction that occurs in some people when skin is exposed to the cold. Itchy welts known as hives can arise within minutes, creating symptoms ranging in severity. This reaction occurs most often within the young adult age group.
What are the symptoms of cold urticaria, and how does the condition occur?
Cold urticaria symptoms begin once the skin is exposed to cold water or a sudden drop in air temperature, although even damp and windy conditions can cause symptoms. These symptoms typically last around two hours. An important note is that the worst reactions occur in extreme cases where the entire body is exposed to cold, like swimming in cold water. This could lead to fainting and even drowning.
Other symptoms include...
Temporary itchy welts known as hives on exposed skin
Swelling of hands while holding cold objects
Swelling of lips from consuming cold food/beverages
Response that worsens as skin warms
In extreme cases:
Anaphylaxis - causing fainting, a racing heart, shock, swelling of trunk or limbs
Swelling of tongue and throat, making it hard to breathe
In some cases, another infection causes cold urticaria. This could be an infection or cancer that affects your immune system.
Cold urticaria diagnosis:
A healthcare professional places an ice cube onto bare skin for five minutes. If a hive forms within a few minutes after the ice cube is taken away, the cold urticaria diagnosis is given. This test is known as the ice cube or cold contact test.
How can cold urticaria be treated?
Many medicines and remedies can be prescribed by a healthcare professional to treat cold urticaria, but there is no cure. Some medicines include non-drowsy antihistamines ahead of time and omalizumab.
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Works Cited
“Cold Urticaria - Diagnosis and Treatment - Mayo Clinic.” Www.mayoclinic.org, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371051.
“Cold Urticaria - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 15 Dec. 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria/symptoms-causes/syc-20371046.
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