Cold urticaria is a skin condition characterized by an abnormal skin allergy or reaction to cold temperatures. People with this skin condition develop itchy, red hives, swelling, or welts on their skin after exposure to cold air, water, or objects. Sometimes in severe cases, exposure to extreme cold environment can lead to systemic reactions, such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis, which may require immediate medical attention.

This skin condition is also known as "cold allergy,” and can vary in severity from person to person. While some people may experience mild, temporary symptoms, others may encounter significant discomfort or even life-threatening reactions. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding their causes is vital for effective management.

Symptoms

Red, itchy hives are typically developing on areas of the skin exposed to cold temperatures.

The affected regions may swell, especially hands, lips, or face.

The burning or stinging sensation is mostly accompanied by the hives.

 In serious cases, symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, and lightheadedness.

Usually, symptoms might not appear immediately and can last several hours after exposure.

Also Read: Hives: Signs, Symptoms And Treatment

Causes

Cold urticaria occurs due to an overreaction of the skin's immune system to cold stimuli. Though the cause is not completely understood, several factors a

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

Certain medical conditions, such as infections or blood disorders, may trigger cold urticaria.

Rarely genetic forms of cold urticaria can run in families.

Direct contact with cold water, air, or objects often triggers the condition.

However, it is important to seek prompt medical care if you observe any of the following symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Swelling in the face or throat
• Breathing issue

These symptoms can indicate a serious allergic reaction and need emergency attention.

If your cold urticaria is milder, try some of these remedies to ease discomfort and speed up the healing process.

Effective Home Remedies for Cold Urticaria

Avoid Cold Exposure

Reduce time spent in cold environments.

Wear protective clothing, such as gloves and scarves, to safeguard the skin from cold air.

Use lukewarm water instead of cold for bathing or washing hands.

Use Antihistamines

Over-the-counter antihistamine creams or oral antihistamines can help ease itching and swelling.

Always consult a doctor before using them regularly.

Warm Compress

Apply a warm (not hot) compress to the affected regions to alleviate discomfort, soothe irritation and improve blood circulation.

Moisturize The Skin

Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to shield the skin from dryness and irritation.

Moisturize immediately after showering to lock in moisture.

Also Read: Winter Acne: Get Amazing Blemish-Free Skin With These Quick Kitchen Fixes – Infographics

Boost Immunity

Consume a rich array of foods heaped with vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Drink herbal teas like ginger or chamomile to provide warmth and soothe the body.

Avoid Harsh Skin Products

Certain skincare essentials like soaps and body wash may dry your skin and aggravate itching sensation. Ensure to use a mild soap that suitable for sensitive skin, which is devoid of fragrance and irritating chemicals. In addition, avoid applying harsh moisturisers or creams.

Home Remedies

Witch hazel

The presence of tannins in witch hazel can ease irritation and soothe the skin. However, do a small patch test before applying it all over the skin to check if it suits your skin type.

Apply witch hazel to your affected skin areas like a mask let it stay for about 20 minutes and rinse well.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera gel is a potent anti-inflammatory agent backed by science that works as a natural skin healing agent. Applying it to the skin can help heal acne, herpes simplex, psoriasis and other skin woes. It is typically well-tolerated by most skin types.

Topically apply aloe vera on affected skin areas twice daily for best results.

When to Seek Medical Help?

If cold urticaria symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by systemic reactions like difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, it’s critical to seek medical help immediately.

By taking proactive steps and following these remedies, you can manage cold urticaria effectively and minimize discomfort. However, understanding your triggers and working with a healthcare provider to create a tailored treatment plan is essential for long-term relief.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile:

M Sowmya Binu:

With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.

References

Cold-induced urticaria: challenges in diagnosis and management

Elana Fay Hochstadter 1, Moshe Ben-Shoshan 2

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3736478/

Treatments of cold urticaria: A systematic review

Kanokvalai Kulthanan, MDa ∙ Saowalak Hunnangkul, PhDb s_hunnangkul@hotmail.com ∙ Papapit Tuchinda, MDa ∙ Leena Chularojanamontri, MDa ∙ Puncharas Weerasubpong, MDa ∙ Chanika Subchookul, MDa ∙ Marcus Maurer, MDc

https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(19)30209-X/fulltext