Cold urticaria
Cold urticaria, also known as cold-induced hives, is a skin condition characterized by an allergic reaction to cold temperatures. It manifests as itchy welts or hives on the skin exposed to cold. The severity of symptoms varies widely among individuals, from minor discomfort to potentially life-threatening reactions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of cold urticaria, including its symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and preventive measures.
Symptoms
Cold urticaria symptoms typically appear within minutes after exposure to cold and may include:
- Itchy welts (hives): These hives appear on the skin that was exposed to cold and may worsen as the skin warms up.
- Swelling of hands: Holding cold objects can cause swelling in the hands.
- Swelling of lips: Consuming cold food or drinks may lead to lip swelling.
- Severe reactions: These can include anaphylaxis (a whole-body response), characterized by fainting, a racing heart, swelling of limbs or torso, shock, and swelling of the tongue and throat, making breathing difficult.
Symptoms typically begin shortly after the skin is exposed to a sudden drop in temperature or cold water. Each episode can last about two hours. The most severe reactions often occur with full-body exposure to cold, such as swimming in cold water, which can result in loss of consciousness and drowning.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience skin reactions after cold exposure, it's important to consult a doctor, even if the reactions are mild. A doctor can rule out underlying conditions that may be contributing to the problem. Seek emergency care if you experience a whole-body response or difficulty breathing after sudden exposure to cold.
Causes
The exact cause of cold urticaria is unknown. It is believed that some individuals have very sensitive skin cells due to an inherited trait, a virus, or an illness. Cold temperatures trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream, causing hives and sometimes systemic reactions.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing cold urticaria:
- Age: Primary acquired cold urticaria is most common in young adults.
- Underlying health conditions: Secondary acquired cold urticaria can be linked to health problems like hepatitis or cancer.
- Inherited traits: Rarely, cold urticaria is inherited, leading to painful welts and flu-like symptoms after cold exposure.
Complications
The primary complication of cold urticaria is a severe reaction following exposure of large skin areas to cold, such as during swimming in cold water.
Prevention
To prevent recurrent episodes of cold urticaria, consider the following tips:
- Antihistamines: Take an over-the-counter antihistamine before exposure to cold.
- Medications: Follow your doctor's prescribed medications.
- Protect your skin: Avoid cold or sudden temperature changes. If swimming, test the water with your hand first.
- Avoid ice-cold drinks and food: This helps prevent throat swelling.
- Epinephrine autoinjector: Carry one (e.g., EpiPen, Auvi-Q) if prescribed, to prevent serious reactions.
- Surgical precautions: Inform your surgeon about your condition before any surgery to prevent cold-induced symptoms in the operating room.
Conclusion
Cold urticaria is a manageable condition with proper preventive measures and treatment. If you suspect you have cold urticaria, consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Staying informed and prepared can help you effectively manage this condition and reduce the risk of severe reactions.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Cold urticaria. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (n.d.). Cold Urticaria. Retrieved from AAAAI
- MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Cold urticaria. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from MedlinePlus
- WebMD. (n.d.). Cold Urticaria (Cold Hives). Retrieved from WebMD
