Cold Urticaria: Symptoms and Causes
May 05, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Cold urticaria typically occurs when a patient’s exposed skin comes into contact with a cold environment, leading to itchy wheals on the exposed areas, often accompanied by pruritus. This condition is commonly caused by genetic factors, though individual constitutional differences or underlying diseases cannot be ruled out.
Cold urticaria—also commonly referred to as cold-induced urticaria—is typically triggered when the skin is exposed to cold temperatures, resulting in localized redness, swelling, burning pain, and itching. These symptoms usually occur on exposed areas such as the hands and face. What are the symptoms and causes of cold urticaria?
Symptoms and Causes of Cold Urticaria
Cold urticaria generally occurs when exposed skin comes into contact with a cold environment, leading to itchy wheals (hives) on the affected areas, often accompanied by pruritus (itching). This condition is frequently associated with genetic predisposition; however, individual constitutional factors or underlying medical conditions may also contribute.
After diagnosis, patients should avoid exposing their skin to cold or otherwise irritating environments to minimize recurrence. Maintaining regular dietary and lifestyle habits is also essential. Engaging in regular physical exercise can help improve the body’s adaptability to external environmental changes. Under a physician’s guidance, oral antihistamines—such as loratadine—may be prescribed for treatment. For symptomatic relief of pruritus, topical anti-itch agents like calamine lotion may be used.
Patients with cold urticaria should maintain proper skin hygiene to prevent bacterial colonization. We hope this article has been helpful to you.
