What is cold urticaria?
Cold urticaria is a skin reaction to cold that appears within minutes after cold exposure. Affected skin develops itchy welts (hives).
People with cold urticaria experience widely different symptoms.
Some have minor reactions to the cold, while others have severe reactions.
For some people with this condition, swimming in cold water could lead to very low blood pressure, fainting or shock.
Cold urticaria occurs most frequently in young adults.
Treatment usually includes preventive steps such as taking antihistamines and avoiding cold air and water.
Cold urticaria signs and symptoms may include:
- Temporary itchy welts (hives) on the area of skin that was exposed to cold
- A worsening of the reaction as the skin warms
- Swelling of hands while holding cold objects
- Swelling of lips from consuming cold food or drink
Severe reactions include a whole-body response (anaphylaxis) and swelling of the tongue and throat, which can make it difficult to breathe.
Causes
No one knows exactly what causes cold urticaria.
Certain people appear to have very sensitive skin cells.
In the most common forms of this condition, cold triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals into the bloodstream. These chemicals cause hives and sometimes a whole-body (systemic) reaction.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria/symptoms-
causes/syc-20371046
