overview
Cold urticaria (ur-tih-KAR-e-uh) is a skin reaction to cold that occurs a few minutes after exposure to the cold. The affected skin develops reddish, itchy spots (hives).Cold urticaria treatment Hyderabad
People with cold urticaria have very different symptoms. Some have minor reactions to the cold while others have serious reactions. For some people with this condition, swimming in cold water can cause very low blood pressure, fainting, or shock.
Cold urticaria is most common in young adults. If you think you may have this condition, contact your doctor. Treatment usually includes preventive measures like taking antihistamines and avoiding cold air and cold water.
Symptom
The signs and symptoms of cold urticaria can include:Cold urticaria treatment Hyderabad
- Temporary red itchy spots (hives) on the skin that has been exposed to the cold
- Speaking of reaction when the skin warms up
- Swelling of the hands when holding cold objects
- Swelling of the lips after eating cold food or drink
Severe reactions can include:
- A whole body reaction (anaphylaxis) that may cause fainting, rapid heartbeat, swelling of the limbs or trunk, and shock
- Swelling of the tongue and throat which can make breathing difficult
The reasons
- Nobody knows exactly what causes cold urticaria. Some people seem to have very sensitive skin cells due to a hereditary trait, virus, or disease. In the most common forms of this disease, the cold triggers the release of histamines and other chemicals into the bloodstream. These chemicals cause redness, itching, and sometimes an entire body (systemic) reaction.Cold urticaria treatment Hyderabad
Risk factors
You are more likely to have this condition if:
- You are a young adult. The most common type – primarily acquired cold urticaria – is most common in young adults.
- You have an underlying health problem. A less common type – secondary acquired cold urticaria – can be caused by an underlying health problem, such as hepatitis or cancer.
- They have certain inherited traits. In rare cases, cold urticaria is inherited. This familial type causes painful spots and flu-like symptoms after exposure to the cold.
Prevention
The following tips can help prevent a recurring episode of cold urticaria:
- Take an over-the-counter antihistamine before exposing it to the cold.
- Take the prescribed medication.
- Protect your skin from the cold or sudden changes in temperature. When you go swimming, put your hand in the water first and see if you have a skin reaction.
- Avoid drinks and frozen foods to avoid swelling in your throat.
- If your doctor has prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others) keep it with you to avoid serious reactions.
- If you need surgery, talk to your surgeon about your cold urticaria beforehand. The surgical team can take steps to prevent cold symptoms in the operating room.Cold urticaria treatment Hyderabad