Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno
Objawy

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno (cold urticaria) to przewlekła choroba alergiczna skóry, charakteryzująca się nadwrażliwością na niskie temperatury, prowadzącą do szybkiego (2-10 minut) pojawienia się bąbli pokrzywkowych, świądu, pieczenia oraz obrzęku w miejscach kontaktu z zimnem. Objawy utrzymują się zwykle od 1 do 2 godzin w postaci nabytej zimnej pokrzywki, natomiast w rzadszej rodzinnej formie mogą pojawiać się z opóźnieniem 24-48 godzin i trwać do 48 godzin. Ciężkie reakcje ogólnoustrojowe, takie jak obrzęk języka i gardła, anafilaksja z tachykardią, hipotensją, dusznością i wstrząsem, występują najczęściej po ekspozycji dużej powierzchni ciała na zimno, zwłaszcza podczas pływania w wodzie o temperaturze poniżej 22°C. Średni czas trwania choroby wynosi około 5,6 ± 3,5 roku, a u około 50% pacjentów dochodzi do remisji lub znacznej poprawy w ciągu 5-6 lat.

Objawy i przebieg kliniczny kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno (cold urticaria) to schorzenie skórne charakteryzujące się nadwrażliwością na niskie temperatury, powodującą pojawienie się charakterystycznych zmian skórnych i potencjalnie ogólnoustrojowych objawów. Reakcja alergiczna rozwijająca się w odpowiedzi na ekspozycję na zimno może przyjmować różne nasilenie – od łagodnych objawów miejscowych do zagrażających życiu reakcji ogólnoustrojowych12.

Czas wystąpienia i utrzymywania się objawów

Objawy kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno pojawiają się zazwyczaj bardzo szybko po ekspozycji skóry na zimno – w ciągu 2-10 minut od kontaktu z zimnym powietrzem, wodą lub przedmiotami34. Co istotne, najczęściej reakcja nasila się podczas ogrzewania skóry po kontakcie z zimnem15. Pojedynczy epizod objawów może utrzymywać się od kilkudziesięciu minut do kilku godzin:

  • W przypadku nabytej zimnej pokrzywki objawy zazwyczaj ustępują po 1-2 godzinach36
  • W rzadszej, rodzinnej (dziedzicznej) postaci zimnej pokrzywki objawy mogą pojawić się z opóźnieniem 24-48 godzin po ekspozycji i utrzymywać się do 48 godzin37

Miejscowe objawy skórne

Podstawowym objawem kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno są charakterystyczne zmiany skórne pojawiające się w miejscach narażonych na działanie niskich temperatur18:

  • Bąble pokrzywkowe (pokrzywka) – czerwone, różowe lub zaróżowione, swędzące uniesione wykwity skórne o różnej wielkości (od kilku milimetrów do kilku centymetrów średnicy)94
  • Świąd – intensywne swędzenie w obrębie zmian pokrzywkowych10
  • Uczucie pieczenia lub mrowienia skóry, szczególnie podczas jej ocieplania46
  • Obrzęk (angioedema) części ciała mających kontakt z zimnem, najczęściej rąk podczas trzymania zimnych przedmiotów lub warg i jamy ustnej po spożyciu zimnych pokarmów lub napojów111

Granice bąbli pokrzywkowych są zazwyczaj dobrze odgraniczone od otaczającej skóry, a ich rozmieszczenie ogranicza się do miejsc, które miały kontakt z zimnem12. Zmiany mogą zmieniać kształt i wielkość w miarę upływu czasu13.

Reakcje ogólnoustrojowe i ciężkie objawy

W cięższych przypadkach kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno mogą wystąpić objawy ogólnoustrojowe, szczególnie gdy duża powierzchnia ciała jest narażona na działanie zimna (np. podczas pływania w zimnej wodzie)114:

  • Obrzęk języka i gardła – prowadzący do trudności w oddychaniu14
  • Anafilaksja – ciężka, zagrażająca życiu reakcja ogólnoustrojowa charakteryzująca się:
    • Przyspieszoną akcją serca (tachykardia)1
    • Spadkiem ciśnienia tętniczego (hipotensja)14
    • Uczuciem oszołomienia lub omdleniem4
    • Obrzękiem kończyn lub tułowia1
    • Wstrząsem1
  • Objawy oddechoweświszczący oddech, duszność15
  • Objawy neurologiczne – ból głowy, zawroty głowy, utrata przytomności316
  • Objawy żołądkowo-jelitowe – nudności, ból brzucha, biegunka16

Nasilone reakcje ogólnoustrojowe najczęściej występują po ekspozycji dużej powierzchni ciała na zimno, szczególnie podczas kontaktu z zimną wodą. Takie sytuacje mogą prowadzić do utraty przytomności, a w przypadku pływania – do utonięcia517.

Dodatkowe objawy towarzyszące

U niektórych pacjentów z kurczowym zapaleniem skóry na zimno mogą wystąpić również inne objawy ogólne416:

  • Gorączka
  • Bóle głowy
  • Zmęczenie i osłabienie
  • Bóle stawów
  • Niepokój
  • Leukocytoza (podwyższona liczba białych krwinek)

Czynniki wpływające na nasilenie objawów

Nasilenie objawów kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno może zależeć od różnych czynników25:

  • Temperatura ekspozycji – objawów można się spodziewać przy temperaturach poniżej 4°C, choć u niektórych osób reakcje pojawiają się już przy temperaturach niższych niż 20°C18
  • Wilgotność i wiatr – wilgotne i wietrzne warunki mogą nasilać objawy5
  • Powierzchnia ekspozycji – im większa powierzchnia skóry narażona na zimno, tym wyższe ryzyko ciężkich reakcji19
  • Czas ekspozycji – dłuższy kontakt z zimnem zwiększa ryzyko wystąpienia i nasilenia objawów19
  • Nagłość zmiany temperatury – gwałtowny spadek temperatury często wyzwala silniejszą reakcję5

Przebieg kliniczny kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno może mieć różny przebieg w zależności od typu i indywidualnych predyspozycji pacjenta2021.

Typy schorzenia i ich przebieg

Wyróżnia się dwa główne typy kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno2022:

  • Nabyta zimna pokrzywka (acquired cold urticaria) – najczęstsza forma, charakteryzująca się szybkim wystąpieniem objawów (2-5 minut po ekspozycji) i krótszym czasem utrzymywania się (1-2 godziny)323
  • Rodzinna/dziedziczna zimna pokrzywka (familial/hereditary cold urticaria) – rzadsza forma, w której objawy pojawiają się z opóźnieniem (24-48 godzin) i utrzymują się dłużej (do 48 godzin)723

Dodatkowo można zidentyfikować także nietypowe formy zimnej pokrzywki, które mogą wykazywać odmienne cechy kliniczne lub odpowiedź na leczenie22.

Choroba przewlekła i jej czas trwania

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno jest zazwyczaj schorzeniem przewlekłym, trwającym ponad 6 miesięcy10. Czas trwania choroby może się znacznie różnić:

  • U około 50% pacjentów objawy ustępują lub znacznie zmniejszają się w ciągu 5-6 lat2414
  • U niektórych pacjentów schorzenie może ustąpić samoistnie po kilku tygodniach lub miesiącach25
  • U pozostałych osób choroba może utrzymywać się przez wiele lat lub nawet całe życie2515

Średni czas trwania choroby wynosi około 5,6 ± 3,5 roku24. Nawroty po pełnej remisji są rzadkie21.

Nawracanie objawów i zaostrzenia

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno charakteryzuje się nawracającymi epizodami objawów po ponownej ekspozycji na zimno2. Częstotliwość i nasilenie nawrotów mogą zależeć od:

  • Pory roku – zaostrzenia są częstsze zimą i w chłodnych porach roku23
  • Stylu życia – częstość ekspozycji na czynniki wyzwalające26
  • Skuteczności leczenia i stosowania się do zaleceń profilaktycznych26

Pomimo skutecznego leczenia pojedynczego epizodu, nawroty są typowe dla tego schorzenia2.

Czynniki ryzyka poważnych reakcji

Niektóre czynniki zwiększają ryzyko wystąpienia ciężkich, ogólnoustrojowych reakcji w przebiegu kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno20:

  • Szybki czas wystąpienia reakcji – pacjenci, u których pokrzywka pojawia się w mniej niż 3 minuty po ekspozycji na zimno, są bardziej narażeni na ciężkie reakcje12
  • Ekspozycja dużej powierzchni ciała – najcięższe reakcje występują, gdy całe ciało jest narażone na zimno, np. podczas pływania w zimnej wodzie14
  • Temperatura wody poniżej 22°C (75°F) – szczególnie niebezpieczna dla osób z zimną pokrzywką27
  • Historia wcześniejszych reakcji anafilaktycznych – zwiększa prawdopodobieństwo kolejnych ciężkich reakcji19

Epidemiologia i predyspozycje wiekowe

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno występuje stosunkowo rzadko w populacji ogólnej421:

  • Szacowana częstość występowania wynosi około 0,05% populacji w Europie Centralnej21
  • Stanowi około 3-34% wszystkich przypadków pokrzywki fizycznej, w zależności od regionu geograficznego421
  • Występuje częściej w chłodniejszym klimacie28
  • Najczęściej dotyka młodych dorosłych, zazwyczaj w wieku 18-25 lat2915
  • Występuje z podobną częstością u kobiet i mężczyzn, choć niektóre badania sugerują nieznacznie większą częstość u kobiet3031

Wpływ na jakość życia

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno może znacząco wpływać na jakość życia pacjentów3233:

  • Ograniczenia w codziennych aktywnościach, szczególnie na zewnątrz w chłodnych porach roku33
  • Unikanie zimnych napojów i pokarmów34
  • Niemożność uczestniczenia w zajęciach wodnych35
  • Ograniczenia społeczne i rezygnacja z imprez towarzyskich33
  • Wpływ na pracę i życie zawodowe33
  • Problemy ze snem33
  • Stres emocjonalny i psychologiczny336

Nieprzewidywalność wystąpienia objawów i konieczność stałego unikania czynników wyzwalających może prowadzić do istotnego pogorszenia jakości życia, szczególnie w przypadku pacjentów z ciężkim przebiegiem choroby33.

Rozpoznanie zimnej pokrzywki

Rozpoznanie kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno opiera się na charakterystycznym obrazie klinicznym oraz testach prowokacyjnych2620.

Test kostki lodu

Podstawowym badaniem diagnostycznym jest test z kostką lodu (ice cube test), nazywany również testem stymulacji zimnem (cold stimulation test)2620:

  • Kostka lodu lub zimny przedmiot jest umieszczany na skórze pacjenta (zazwyczaj na przedramieniu) na 5 minut26
  • Po usunięciu kostki lodu, skóra jest obserwowana przez 10-15 minut podczas ocieplania36
  • Wynik pozytywny: pojawienie się bąbla pokrzywkowego (uniesionego zaczerwienienia) w miejscu kontaktu z lodem podczas ogrzewania skóry26
  • Test może być powtarzany z różnymi czasami ekspozycji w celu określenia minimalnego czasu potrzebnego do wywołania reakcji20

Ważne jest, aby obserwować skórę przez odpowiednio długi czas po usunięciu kostki lodu, ponieważ reakcja może pojawić się dopiero podczas ocieplania skóry36.

Negatywny wynik testu nie wyklucza całkowicie diagnozy, gdyż u niektórych pacjentów z atypowymi formami kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno test może nie wywołać reakcji2037.

Diagnostyka różnicowa

W diagnostyce różnicowej kurczowego zapalenia skóry na zimno należy uwzględnić2031:

  • Inne formy pokrzywki fizycznej (dermografizm, pokrzywka cieplna, pokrzywka opóźniona z ucisku)38
  • Pokrzywka spontaniczna (nieprowokowana przez określone czynniki fizyczne)38
  • Kriofibroginemia (obecność białek precypitujących w niskich temperaturach)20
  • Zaburzenia krzepnięcia krwi indukowane zimnem20
  • Inne choroby alergiczne skóry27

W przypadkach wątpliwych lub przy podejrzeniu wtórnych form zimnej pokrzywki, mogą być konieczne dodatkowe badania laboratoryjne20.

Potencjalne powikłania

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno może prowadzić do różnych powikłań, z których najpoważniejsze są związane z ciężkimi reakcjami ogólnoustrojowymi146:

  • Wstrząs anafilaktyczny – zagrażający życiu stan nagłego spadku ciśnienia tętniczego i niewydolności oddechowej14
  • Obrzęk górnych dróg oddechowych – mogący prowadzić do niewydolności oddechowej1
  • Utrata przytomności – szczególnie niebezpieczna podczas pływania, mogąca prowadzić do utonięcia5
  • Powikłania skórne – w przypadku intensywnego drapania zmian pokrzywkowych może dojść do nadkażeń skóry i powstania blizn6
  • Długotrwałe ograniczenia w funkcjonowaniu – konieczność stałego unikania zimna może prowadzić do istotnych ograniczeń w życiu codziennym33

Szczególnie niebezpieczne sytuacje dla pacjentów z kurczowym zapaleniem skóry na zimno to pływanie w zimnej wodzie oraz zabiegi chirurgiczne w warunkach obniżonej temperatury podczas znieczulenia ogólnego1427.

Charakterystyka objawów i przebiegu klinicznego

Kurczowe zapalenie skóry na zimno to przewlekła choroba alergiczna charakteryzująca się reakcją skórną na zimno w postaci swędzących bąbli pokrzywkowych, obrzęku i potencjalnie ciężkich reakcji ogólnoustrojowych. Objawy typowo pojawiają się szybko po ekspozycji na zimno i nasilają się podczas ogrzewania skóry, utrzymując się od kilkudziesięciu minut do kilku godzin13.

Ciężkość objawów może się znacznie różnić między pacjentami – od łagodnych, miejscowych zmian skórnych po zagrażającą życiu anafilaksję. Najcięższe reakcje występują zwykle przy ekspozycji dużej powierzchni ciała na zimno, jak podczas pływania w zimnej wodzie41.

Choroba ma zwykle charakter przewlekły, trwający kilka lat, z nawracającymi epizodami po ekspozycji na zimno. U około połowy pacjentów objawy ustępują lub znacznie zmniejszają się w ciągu 5-6 lat2414.

Właściwe rozpoznanie opiera się na charakterystycznym obrazie klinicznym i dodatnim wyniku testu z kostką lodu. Świadomość potencjalnych powikłań i odpowiednie postępowanie profilaktyczne są kluczowe dla poprawy jakości życia pacjentów z tym schorzeniem2620.

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  1. 11.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Cold urticaria – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria/symptoms-causes/syc-20371046
    Cold urticaria symptoms may include: […] Temporary itchy welts, also called hives, on the area of skin exposed to cold. […] A response that worsens as the skin warms. […] Swelling of the hands while holding cold objects. […] Swelling of the lips from eating cold food or drinking cold beverages. […] Serious responses may include: […] A whole-body reaction, also known as anaphylaxis. This can cause fainting, a racing heart, swelling of limbs or trunk, and shock. […] Swelling of the tongue and throat. This can make it hard to breathe. […] Cold urticaria symptoms begin soon after the skin is exposed to a sudden drop in air temperature or cold water. Damp and windy conditions may cause symptoms to flare up. Each bout of symptoms may last for about two hours. […] The worst reactions generally occur when all of the skin is exposed to cold, such as when swimming in cold water. These reactions could lead to fainting and drowning.
  • #2 Cold Urticaria: What It Is, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24629-cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria is a condition that causes an allergic reaction to cold temperatures. A person with cold urticaria may develop a rash or hives after: […] The main symptom is a skin rash after exposure to something cold. The rash generally occurs after the exposure is over, as your skin’s temperature rises. […] The signs and symptoms of cold urticaria vary from person to person. They can be mild to severe. They may affect a small area of your skin or your entire body. […] Severe reactions may involve more serious symptoms. […] In very rare, severe cases, a person may also experience a systemic reaction that affects their entire body, such as: […] An episode of cold urticaria can last a few minutes to several hours. The symptoms usually go away on their own after you’ve recovered from cold exposure. But sometimes an episode requires treatment to go away. […] Cold urticaria often recurs (happens again) after successful treatment of an episode.
  • #3 Cold Urticaria: What is it, Causes, Symptoms, and More
    https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/what-is-cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria (hives) is an allergic condition that causes red, itchy rashes on the skin after exposure to the cold. If you have this condition, you may notice the skin reaction about five to ten minutes after you come into contact with cold water or weather. The reaction may last from one to two hours. […] In acquired cold urticaria, symptoms start to show after two to five minutes of getting triggered. The symptoms last for about one or two hours before resolving. […] Here, symptoms may start to show 24 to 48 hours after getting triggered. The symptoms of this type of urticaria usually last for 24 hours but may go on up to 48 hours. […] The most common symptoms of cold urticaria include: Red, itchy rashes after feeling cold, Anaphylaxis (allergic reaction), Swelling in the affected area, Headache or lightheadedness, Burning feeling in the affected area.
  • #4 Cold Rash (Cold Urticaria): Symptoms, Treatment, and More
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/overview-of-cold-rash-cold-urticaria-5114291
    Cold rash comprises approximately 3% of all cases of urticaria (hives). […] Symptoms last approximately one to two hours in a person with the essential form of cold urticaria. […] Symptoms may begin in 5 to 30 minutes after cold exposure; symptoms usually start when the exposed skin is rewarming, but they sometimes begin beforehand. Itching and reddening may be the initial symptoms, followed by a burning sensation. Hives usually last around 30 minutes, other symptoms may include headaches, wheezing, heart palpitations, or fainting. […] Symptoms of cold rash often worsen as the skin warms up. […] A severe reaction is possible and usually occurs when a person has full skin exposure (such as immersion in cold water). […] Severe, systemic symptoms may include: Swelling of the tongue and throat, Difficulty breathing, Anaphylaxis (which may include fainting; fast heart rate; swelling of the arms, legs, or torso; and shock).
  • #4 Cold Rash (Cold Urticaria): Symptoms, Treatment, and More
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/overview-of-cold-rash-cold-urticaria-5114291
    Severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, are usually linked with full skin exposure, such as when swimming in cold water. […] Common symptoms of cold rash include: An abnormal reaction of the skin in the area exposed to cold (including cold water, ice application, cold food, icy drinks, or cold weather), Erythema (red, purple, brown, or gray discolored skin), Pruritic (itchy) hives (welts or wheals) with or without angioedema (swelling of the tissue), Itching, Fever, Headache, Anxiety, Fatigue, Arthralgia (joint pain), Leukocytosis (an elevation in white blood cells), Uncommon symptoms may include: fainting, heart palpitations, wheezing.
  • #5 Cold urticaria | Altru Health System
    https://www.altru.org/health-library/conditions/cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria (ur-tih-KAR-e-uh) is a reaction that appears within minutes after skin is exposed to the cold. Itchy welts, also called hives, arise on affected skin. […] Symptoms in people with cold urticaria can range from minor to serious. For some people with this condition, swimming in cold water could lead to low blood pressure, fainting or shock. […] Cold urticaria symptoms may include: Temporary itchy welts, also called hives, on the area of skin exposed to cold. A response that worsens as the skin warms. Swelling of the hands while holding cold objects. Swelling of the lips from eating cold food or drinking cold beverages. […] Serious responses may include: A whole-body reaction, also known as anaphylaxis. This can cause fainting, a racing heart, swelling of limbs or trunk, and shock. Swelling of the tongue and throat. This can make it hard to breathe.
  • #5 Cold urticaria | Altru Health System
    https://www.altru.org/health-library/conditions/cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria symptoms begin soon after the skin is exposed to a sudden drop in air temperature or cold water. Damp and windy conditions may cause symptoms to flare up. Each bout of symptoms may last for about two hours. […] The worst reactions generally occur when all of the skin is exposed to cold, such as when swimming in cold water. These reactions could lead to fainting and drowning.
  • #6 Cold Urticaria – DoveMed
    https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria
    Cold Urticaria is a common type of urticaria mostly seen in cold climates in which skin rashes develop following exposure of skin to cold environments. […] The skin rashes appear almost within minutes of exposure to cold. […] The body skin exposed to cold is typically affected. Intense itching may lead to skin ulceration and scarring, which can cause emotional stress from cosmetic concerns. The skin rashes and other symptoms disappear within 1-2 hours (for acquired Cold Urticaria), when the body temperature returns to normal levels. However, in the case of inherited forms, they may last for about 2 days. […] The signs and symptoms of Cold-Induced Urticaria that occur within a few minutes (2-5 minutes) of stimuli exposure may include the following: Initially, localized itching of skin may be observed; the skin may appear swollen.
  • #6 Cold Urticaria – DoveMed
    https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria
    Formation of skin rashes or weals (wheals) that are associated with redness (or pinkish discoloration) and intense itching. […] Depending on the exposed area, the condition can be localized or widespread or extensive. […] In some individuals, there may be a burning sensation accompanying itching. […] The weals may change in shape and size and can last for a couple of hours after exposure. […] Severe exposure, causing Cold Urticaria, which occurs on plunging into very cold water can result in cardiovascular shock and loss of consciousness. Due to this, the individual is at a greater risk for drowning. […] The prognosis of Chronic Inducible Urticaria is generally good with suitable early treatment. It is reported that in many individuals (around 50%), the condition is known to last for 5-10 years and then disappear. […] In some individuals, the condition is recurrent and chronic and may last their entire lifetime. […] Severe symptoms, the development of complications, and a lack of access to proper and prompt treatment can result in fatal outcomes.
  • #7 Yes, You Really Can Be Allergic To Cold Weather | University Hospitals
    https://www.uhhospitals.org/blog/articles/2020/10/you-really-can-be-allergic-to-cold-weather
    With the inherited allergy, it takes 24 to 48 hours for symptoms to appear, and the symptoms last longer about 24 hours. […] Cold urticaria symptoms may be triggered an infectious disease, insect bite, certain medications or blood cancers. But most often, symptoms may appear for seemingly no reason or underlying trigger, Dr. Silver says. […] To diagnose the allergy, Dr. Silver says, an allergist will place a cold object such as an ice cube against the skin on the forearm for one to five minutes. People with cold urticaria will generally develop a distinct red and swollen rash within minutes.
  • #8 Cold Urticaria – Allergy & Asthma Network
    https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/chronic-urticaria/cold-urticaria/
    Cold urticaria is a chronic skin condition that occurs after sudden exposure to anything cold swimming in cold water, drinking a cold beverage, eating ice cream, handling a cold object, going for a walk in frigid temperatures, or even walking into an air-conditioned room. […] Itchy, red skin and welts on skin that has been exposed to cold. […] Reaction worsens when the skin warms up after its removed from the cold. […] Swelling of lips when eating or drinking something cold. […] Swelling of hands when holding something cold. […] Swelling of the tongue or throat. […] In severe cases, there is a whole-body response that includes fainting, swelling, a racing heart and shock. This can happen when theres full skin exposure, such as bathing or swimming in cold water. […] If you experience red, splotchy skin and welts after exposure to cold, seek out a diagnosis from a board-certified allergist or dermatologist.
  • #9 Cold Urticaria: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
    https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/skin-hair-and-nails/cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria is an allergic response that develops after exposure to the cold. It most often presents as a rash or hives. The main symptom of cold urticaria is hives or weals on the skin. These are raised bumps that can: feel itchy, cause a stinging or burning sensation, develop in one limited area of skin or over large areas of the body, be a few millimeters to a few inches in size, appear discolored or flushed, such as pink, red, or purple, appear pale or the same as your typical skin color, resemble a rash. Hives may improve anywhere within a few minutes to a few days. However, some people may experience chronic urticaria. This is when symptoms persist or come and go for over 6 weeks. Other cold urticaria symptoms can include swelling in the following areas, if they come into contact with the cold: lips, mouth or tongue, throat, hands. Anaphylaxis can occur due to cold urticaria. Cold urticaria symptoms can appear after exposure to the cold. Cold temperatures themselves may not always trigger symptoms. Often, cold urticaria develops due to rewarming from the cold. Cold urticaria is relatively rare. Cold urticaria most often causes skin symptoms, such as hives. These can be irritating but may not be life threatening. A common cold urticaria symptom is raised hives or weals on the skin. These may be itchy and appear red or discolored. Swelling is another common symptom of cold urticaria.
  • #10 Cold Urticaria – Global Allergy & Airways Patient PlatformExpandExpandExpandExpandExpandExpandToggle MenuScroll to topScroll to topExpandExpandExpandExpandExpandExpand
    https://gaapp.org/diseases/urticaria/forms-of-urticaria/cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria, or cold-induced urticaria, is an allergic reaction that affects the skin when it is exposed to something cold, such as cold water, weather, or ice. The cold temperature triggers immune system cells in the skin – called mast cells – to react and release histamine and other chemicals. Commonly a red, itchy rash appears within a few minutes of the cold exposure. […] The number and severity of symptoms vary from person to person. The most common symptom is a red, itchy rash (hives, welts, or wheals) on the area of skin exposed to the cold. […] Other symptoms include: Swelling (edema) in the area under the skin exposed to the cold, Headache. Symptoms can appear five to 10 minutes after the cold exposure, lasting usually up to a couple of hours. The symptoms can worsen as your skin warms after the cold exposure.
  • #10 Cold Urticaria – Global Allergy & Airways Patient PlatformExpandExpandExpandExpandExpandExpandToggle MenuScroll to topScroll to topExpandExpandExpandExpandExpandExpand
    https://gaapp.org/diseases/urticaria/forms-of-urticaria/cold-urticaria
    Occasionally people experience a severe, whole-body allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which can lead to difficulty breathing, shock, or fainting. This is a medical emergency and urgent treatment is required. […] Cold-induced urticaria is a chronic condition, lasting more than six months. It usually lasts some years, though about one in three people report that their symptoms go away with five to ten years.
  • #11 Cold Urticaria Symptoms and Causes | Valley Skin Institute
    https://www.valleyskininstitute.com/cold-urticaria-symptoms-and-causes/?srsltid=AfmBOoo4KWqbRPg7IDpq1TvoCEPk8nGFoDReNYxi16bJgUHstkmVErIE
    Do you develop an itchy rash or welts after you go out in the cold, especially on skin that your clothing did not cover? Have you ever felt faint or developed an itchy rash after being in cold water? How about swelling of your lips or throat after consuming frozen foods or beverages? […] You may have cold urticaria. […] Cold urticaria is a skin reaction to cold temperatures. The reaction typically develops within minutes of exposure to cold. The condition affects males and females equally. […] Hives, red skin, and itching are the primary symptom of cold urticaria, and they can develop anywhere on your skin. […] Fever, headache, anxiety, tiredness, and, sometimes fainting may occur. Some people develop wheezing or palpitations, or a fluttering feeling in their chest. […] Swelling can occur and it can be a medical emergency, especially if it develops in your mouth or throat, or if it causes you to have difficulty breathing. If you experience difficulty breathing, swelling in your mouth or throat, or other severe swelling associated with cold urticaria, seek medical help immediately. Low blood pressure can occur in severe cases, which can lead to shock, collapse, and even death.
  • #12 Cold urticaria – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cold_urticaria
    Cold urticaria is a disorder in which large red welts called hives (urticaria) form on the skin after exposure to a cold stimulus. The hives are usually itchy and often the hands, feet and other parts of the body will become itchy and swollen as well. Hives vary in size from about 7 mm in diameter to as big as about 27 mm or larger. […] When the body is exposed to the cold in individuals affected by the condition, hives appear and the skin in the affected area typically becomes itchy. Hives result from dilation of capillaries which allow fluid to flow out into the surrounding tissue which is the epidermis. They resolve when the body absorbs this fluid. The border of a hive is described as polycyclic, or made up of many circles, and changes as fluid leaks out and then is absorbed. […] Hives may appear immediately or after a delay. Hives can last for a few minutes or a few days, and vary from person to person. Also, a burning sensation occurs. A serious reaction is most likely to occur for patients where the hives occur with less than three minutes of exposure (during a cold test).
  • #13 Hives: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8630-hives
    Hives are often very itchy, but you might also feel burning or stinging. They can be as small as a fingertip or as big as a dinner plate. The medical name for hives is urticaria. […] Hives look different depending on the person and the situation. They can show up anywhere on your body. Signs of acute hives include: Raised welts or bumps on your skin. The bumps may look reddish on lighter-colored skin. Hives blanch (the center of the hive becomes pale when pressed). Itchy skin. Swelling under your skin causing puffiness (angioedema). Also appearing with painful swelling of your lips, eyes and inside your throat. […] In many respects, chronic hives and acute hives may look alike: they can be itchy, swollen raised welts that turn lighter in the center and with pressure. However, chronic hives can: Shift sizes and shapes. Appear, disappear and then reappear at least every few days for long periods of time, even months or years. Happen along with heat, exercise or stress.
  • #14 Cold urticaria
    https://dermnetnz.org/topics/cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria is a relatively uncommon form of chronic inducible urticaria. Urticarial weals develop after being exposed to cold, cold water, and cold objects. Symptoms of cold urticaria become evident within 25 minutes after exposure and last for 12 hours. They include: Itchy weals (urticaria) and angioedema that may be localised (affecting certain parts of the body) or generalised (rash over the whole body). In some cases, systemic symptoms may develop (anaphylaxis) […] In very severe cases hypotension (drop in blood pressure), shock, collapse and even death may occur. Swimming in cold water is the most common cause of a severe cold urticarial reaction. Severe reactions may also arise in patients exposed to cold rooms or during surgery under general anaesthesia. Cold urticaria usually lasts for some years. About 30% report resolution of symptoms within 5 to 10 years. A 20-year follow-up study of 41 patients diagnosed with cold urticaria showed it had resolved by 10 years in about a quarter of patients. Most affected individuals relied on lifestyle modifications to avoid flares.
  • #15 Cold Allergy: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention Tips, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-allergy
    You may be allergic to the cold if you notice changes to your skin or other symptoms after exposure to frigid temperatures. This condition may appear suddenly and resolve itself over time. […] Non-life-threatening but serious symptoms of cold urticaria can include: hives, which are red, itchy, raised welts at the site of cold exposure; a burning sensation on the affected skin as your body warms; swelling at the site of exposure; fever; headache; joint pain; fatigue; anxiety. […] Severe symptoms of a cold urticaria that require immediate medical attention may include: anaphylaxis, which is a severe acute allergic reaction; breathing problems, like wheezing; swelling of your tongue and throat; heart palpitations; a drop in blood pressure; fainting; shock. […] The appearance of CU symptoms can vary. You may find that symptoms occur almost immediately (2 to 5 minutes) after exposure to cold temperatures. Symptoms may disappear in 1 to 2 hours.
  • #15 Cold Allergy: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention Tips, and More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-allergy
    Other times, the reaction may begin long after cold exposure, within hours or a couple of days, and could take up to 2 days to go away. Your condition may be inherited if you experience delayed CU symptoms. […] CU most often develops in young adults. […] About half of people who have the condition, as time goes on, will either have significant symptom improvement or not experience any more CU within 6 years. […] Most often, symptoms may appear seemingly out of nowhere, with no obvious underlying trigger other than exposure to the cold. […] CU may resolve itself within a few years. If your condition doesn’t resolve itself, talk with your doctor. […] CU symptoms may be life-threatening, so seek immediate medical care if you: have difficulty breathing; experience other severe symptoms.
  • #16 What Is Cold-Induced Urticaria?
    https://www.icliniq.com/articles/skin-care/cold-induced-urticaria
    It is an allergic reaction to a cold that appears within minutes of getting exposed to the cold. […] Symptoms include hives, erythema, and itching. […] The symptoms appear somewhere between 30 minutes to 24 hours after being exposed and last typically for 48 hours. […] The symptoms of acquired cold urticaria start within two to five minutes after the exposure and last for 30 minutes. […] Along with redness and itching, the patient will also develop headaches, wheezing, palpitation, and fainting. […] Apart from the dermatological symptoms, patients with cold-induced urticaria will develop the following symptoms depending on the duration of exposure- […] Include fever and fatigue. […] Comprise of itchy wheals with or without affecting lips, tongue, and pharynx. […] The commonly seen ones are dyspnoea (difficulty in breathing), hoarseness, laryngeal angioedema (neck swelling), and nasal congestion. […] They are nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. […] Includes tachycardia (increased heartbeat), hypotension, and shock. […] Can be noticed in the form of uterine contractions. […] This includes headache, disorientation, fatigue, and vertigo.
  • #17 Cold urticaria – Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand.
    https://www.vejthani.com/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria/
    In more serious cases, these things might happen: Anaphylaxis, which means widespread symptoms like fainting, fast heart rate, swelling of body parts, and shock. Swelling of the tongue and throat, which can make it hard to breathe. […] Symptoms of cold urticaria typically arise shortly after the skin encounters a sudden decrease in air temperature or cold water, and higher humidity and windy conditions can exacerbate these symptoms. Each episode usually lasts for approximately two hours. The most severe reactions often occur when the skin is fully exposed, such as during activities like swimming in cold water, which could potentially result in loss of consciousness and an increased risk of drowning.
  • #18
    https://www.healthing.ca/wellness/urticaria-extreme-temperature-allergy
    Symptoms can vary widely from person to person, with some people experiencing very mild reactions while other peoples are quite severe, and they can appear at any time once the temperature dips below about 4 degrees. Cold urticaria tends to occur more often in younger people, but there are no known causes. People with weakened skin cells due to underlying conditions such as cancer could be more prone to cold urticaria.
  • #19 Cold urticaria allergy can be deadly: Symptoms to watch for
    https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/01/29/cold-uticaria-allergy-symptoms/2708444002/
    The longer you’re out there, the more skin that’s exposed to the elements, you can get a more severe reaction. […] You’d get symptoms in your extremities first. You’ll notice your hands getting red, fingers, feet, toes, ears, getting red, becoming paler, starting to become blue. Those would be early signs or symptoms. […] You can start to get physical symptoms such as frostbite, especially in parts of the body that are more vulnerable to cold, and where the blood vessels are the smallest, so think, your fingers, your toes, your ears, your nose. […] You know you are in trouble when you cant warm up with typical measures, or for some individuals, if theyve been out in the cold long enough where theyre noticing its not just my hands being kind of red, but its coming to the point where your extremities are turning blue, or youre having difficulty breathing, or where youre starting to feel light-headed or dizzy because of the cold, and youre becoming less cognitive.
  • #19 Cold urticaria allergy can be deadly: Symptoms to watch for
    https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/01/29/cold-uticaria-allergy-symptoms/2708444002/
    For some people, exposure to cold temperatures can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction called cold urticaria. […] Cold urticaria can range from skin reactions, where the skin becomes cold, and you break out in hives in the area thats exposed, to where you have the oropharyngeal swelling of the airway, where its difficult to swallow or breathe after swallowing a cold beverage. […] The more skin that is exposed for people with cold urticaria, like in swimming for long periods of time, those are the people who have the more severe, systemic reactions. They can actually go into anaphylactic shock from exposure to the cold. […] Certain individuals will have closure of the airways with exposure to extreme cold. If you have problems breathing, if you have difficulty trying to swallow, seek medical attention immediately.
  • #20 Cold-induced urticaria: challenges in diagnosis and management
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3736478/
    Cold-induced urticaria (CU) is a chronic physical urticaria that can be hard to diagnose and manage. Symptoms of CU can vary from mild localised urticaria, angio-oedema to anaphylaxis. CU consists of the development of localised or diffuse urticaria, angio-oedema and occasionally systemic symptoms secondary to exposure to a cold stimulus. The mean duration of this type of chronic urticaria is 4.89.3 years with 50% improving within approximately 5 years. Given the different possible cold triggers of CU, a detailed history and the use of confirmatory tests are required to appropriately establish the diagnosis. The cold stimulation test (CST) is the main test used to diagnose CU, also known as the ice cube test. The test may be then repeated at shorter intervals to establish minimum time required for induction of a weal (cold stimulation time test). A negative test is defined when no weal develops after 510min and this has been described in atypical forms of CU. With cold stimuli being very common, under-diagnosis or misdiagnosis of this type of urticaria could lead to a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. The three paediatric cases of CU present in this paper help demonstrate the variability of this type of urticaria and the importance of appropriate diagnosis and management.
  • #21 Cold urticaria – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/cold-urticaria/print
    Cold urticaria, sometimes also called cold contact urticaria or acquired cold urticaria, is a subtype of physical urticaria. Cold urticaria is characterized by pruritic wheals (hives) and/or angioedema due to cutaneous mast cell degranulation and their release of proinflammatory mediators after cold exposure of the skin. […] Cold urticaria most frequently affects young adults. The incidence of cold urticaria was estimated to be 0.05 percent in Central Europe. The frequency of cold urticaria among physical urticaria subtypes varies between 5 and 34 percent, partly depending on the geographic region. […] Cold urticaria is a self-limited disorder in most patients. Remission, or at least improvement of symptoms, occurs in 50 percent of patients within five to six years. The mean time to resolution in one study was 5.6±3.5 years. Recurrence of cold urticaria after remission is rare. However, some patients have the disorder for many years, and there are lifelong forms of atypical cold urticaria.
  • #22 Cold Urticaria Syndromes: Diagnosis and Management – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37290539/
    Cold urticaria is a chronic condition causing episodic symptoms of cold-induced wheals or angioedema in response to direct or indirect exposure to cold temperatures. […] Whereas symptoms of cold urticaria are typically benign and self-limiting, severe systemic anaphylactic reactions are possible. […] Acquired, atypical, and hereditary forms have been described, each with variable triggers, symptoms, and responses to therapy. […] Clinical testing, including response to cold stimulation, helps define disease subtypes. […] More recently, monogenic disorders characterized by atypical forms of cold urticaria have been described.
  • #23 Find out if you have urticaria and how to manage the symptoms –
    https://www.healthawareness.co.uk/patient-care/find-out-if-you-have-urticaria-and-how-to-manage-the-symptoms/
    Urticaria presents as a red, raised itchy rash that can be either acute (lasting up to 24 hours) or chronic (lasting over 6 weeks). The rash can appear anywhere on the body and may be pink or red. It may present with raised bumps in different shapes and sizes. […] People with urticaria tend to experience symptoms of itchy skin and sensations of stinging and burning. […] However, with winter lurking and different weather extremes approaching, those suffering from cold urticaria may find the next few months challenging. People who suffer from cold urticaria often experience a flare of their hives when exposed to cold weather, swimming in cold water or even ingesting cold food and drink. […] Acquired cold urticaria is when a person has symptoms that appear within a few minutes after cold exposure. The symptoms often resolve after an hour or two, and there is no familial history. The second type of cold urticaria is known as familial or hereditary, meaning it has been passed down in families and often causes prolonged symptoms; although, these cases are rare.
  • #24 Cold urticaria – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/cold-urticaria
    Cold urticaria is characterized by pruritic wheals (hives) and/or angioedema due to cutaneous mast cell degranulation and their release of proinflammatory mediators after cold exposure of the skin. […] Cold urticaria is a self-limited disorder in most patients. Remission, or at least improvement of symptoms, occurs in 50 percent of patients within five to six years. […] The mean time to resolution in one study was 5.6±3.5 years. Recurrence of cold urticaria after remission is rare. However, some patients have the disorder for many years, and there are lifelong forms of atypical cold urticaria (ie, familial atypical cold urticaria and familial delayed cold urticaria). […] Signs and symptoms result from degranulation of mast cells and the resulting release of histamine and other proinflammatory mediators. This results in pruritus, burning, and erythema from activation of cutaneous nerves and vasodilation of skin vessels with extravasation causing wheals and angioedema. Following a cold stimulation test (CST), cutaneous mast cells show signs of degranulation, and skin and serum levels of mast cell mediators are increased.
  • #25 Welts on skin due to cold temperature could be hives
    https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/hives-cold-urticaria
    Most people who have cold urticaria develop a welt on their skin after the bag is removed and their skin starts to warm up. […] If you get hives from cold temperatures, treatment can help reduce flare-ups. […] The goal of treatment is to decrease your symptoms so that they don’t interfere with your daily life. […] Some people who have cold urticaria see it go away on its own within a few weeks or months. About half the people who get cold urticaria will see it disappear within five years. Once this happens, most patients never get hives from the cold again. […] It’s also possible to have cold urticaria for life.
  • #26 Cold urticaria – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cold-urticaria/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371051
    An ice cube is placed on your skin for five minutes to diagnose cold urticaria. If you have cold urticaria, a raised bump, also called a hive, will form a few minutes after the ice cube is taken away. This is called the ice cube or cold contact test. […] In some people, cold urticaria goes away on its own after weeks or months. In others, it lasts longer. While there is no cure for the condition, treatment and taking steps to avoid cold urticaria can help. […] Antihistamines block the release of histamine that causes symptoms. These medicines can be used to treat mild symptoms of cold urticaria or to keep a response from happening. Medicines available without a prescription include forms of loratadine and cetirizine. […] If you’re having mild hives, these tips may ease your symptoms: Protect affected areas from getting irritated. Stay away from whatever you think may have caused your response, such as facing into a cold wind or swimming in cold water. Reduce vigorous activity, which can irritate your skin more. Use antihistamines available without a prescription to help with itching.
  • #27 Cross country runner finds way to manage her allergic symptoms to the cold : Inside Children’s Blog
    https://www.akronchildrens.org/inside/2023/12/02/cross-country-runner-finds-way-to-manage-her-allergic-symptoms-to-the-cold/
    In general, Evelyn can control allergic reactions by take an allergy pill daily. She also carries what she calls an emergency pill, a stronger medication that helps with a sudden outbreak of hives. […] There are other precautions that people with cold-induced urticaria must take. For instance, if they get cold medications injected intravenously, they could go into anaphylactic shock. Similarly, they are cautioned not to swim alone or go into water that is below 75 degrees Fahrenheit without first doing a hand or finger test to see if they experience a reaction. […] We see Evelyn annually, during which we emphasize education and preparedness, Dr. Sammon said. The visit provides us with an opportunity to check-in and readjust her therapy, if needed. We talk about the plan she has in place and what preventive measures she can take to reduce her symptoms.
  • #27 Cross country runner finds way to manage her allergic symptoms to the cold : Inside Children’s Blog
    https://www.akronchildrens.org/inside/2023/12/02/cross-country-runner-finds-way-to-manage-her-allergic-symptoms-to-the-cold/
    Evelyn Caldwell, age 17, has cold-induced urticaria. Its a rare type of physical urticaria that Evelyn is able to control by taking with several allergy medications. […] During Evelyns first appointment with Lisa Sammon, DO, pediatric allergist/immunologist and the Center for Allergy and Immunology interim director, Evelyn and her mom described her symptoms. Evelyn also underwent an ice cube test where an ice cube was placed on the inside of her arm for five minutes. Evelyns hives appeared almost instantaneously. […] Dr. Sammon diagnosed Evelyn with cold-induced urticaria, a type of physical urticaria. She prescribed several allergy medications to help Evelyn manage her symptoms. […] We learned that cold urticaria is a rare condition that isnt caused just by cold weather, Heather said. It can also be physical reactions to things such as swimming in cold water, drinking a cold beverage or eating cold foods.
  • #28 Am I Experiencing Cold Urticaria (Hives)? | Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
    https://community.aafa.org/db/ask-the-allergist/record/am-i-experiencing-cold-urticaria-hives
    Twoja historia jest bardzo zgodna z pokrzywką wywołaną zimnem. Ten stan obejmuje swędzące pokrzywki z lub bez obrzęku skóry. Objawy są zazwyczaj ograniczone do obszarów narażonych na zimno. Rzadziej mogą wystąpić ogólne objawy, takie jak anafilaksja. Unikanie narażenia na zimno jest najlepszą profilaktyką reakcji. Wysokie ryzyko występuje podczas pływania (np. w chłodnych lub zimnych basenach lub jeziorach) oraz spożywania zimnych napojów lub potraw. W podsumowaniu, twoja historia jest bardzo typowa dla pokrzywki wywołanej zimnem. […] Ta choroba dotyka zazwyczaj młodych dorosłych. Występuje u 0,05% osób i jest częściej spotykana w zimniejszych klimatach. Ten stan może ustąpić u 50% pacjentów.
  • #29 How to Deal with Cold Urticaria: 7 Steps (with Pictures) – wikiHow
    https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-Cold-Urticaria
    Cold urticaria is an allergic skin reaction to cold temperatures. It can be triggered by exposure to cold weather, cold water, ice, and even cold food and beverages. Symptoms of cold urticaria include a temporary reddish, itchy skin rash (hives), swollen hands, swollen mouth / throat and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis a full-body life-threatening allergic reaction. […] Cold urticaria symptoms typically begin soon after skin is exposed to a sudden drop in air temperature the majority of reactions are triggered by temperatures lower than 39F. […] Symptoms of cold urticaria usually appear between 5-30 minutes after cold exposure and they can last for up to 48 hours. […] The itching hives typical of urticaria can also be accompanied by mild fever, headache, fatigue and joint pain during severe episodes. […] Cold urticaria occurs most frequently in younger adults (18 to 25 years), and it often clears up (goes away completely) within a few years of the first episode.
  • #30 Winter’s Chill: Understanding Cold-Induced Hives – The Allergy Group
    https://theallergygroup.com/winters-chill-understanding-cold-induced-hives/
    Cold-induced hives, or cold urticaria, are a form of hives that appear in response to exposure to cold temperatures. Affecting approximately 1 in 100,000 people, this condition is more common in women than men. […] Symptoms generally occur within 30 minutes of exposure to cold and may include: Red, itchy, and swollen patches on the skin (hives) A burning or stinging sensation Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (in severe cases). […] Although cold-induced hives can be uncomfortable, there are methods to help manage and prevent them: Dress warmly when outdoors in cold weather Avoid sudden temperature changes Use lukewarm water for bathing and washing Avoid consuming cold foods and beverages Consider medication, such as antihistamines or corticosteroids, for severe cases. […] By understanding and managing cold-induced hives, you can still enjoy winter with confidence. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a board-certified allergist for guidance. Stay warm and stay informed!
  • #31 Review of cold-induced urticaria characteristics, diagnosis and management in a Western Canadian allergy practice | Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology | Full Text
    https://aacijournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13223-018-0310-5
    Cold-induced urticaria is a significant condition, especially among young females. Symptoms are typically local and occur minutes after exposure, however severe systemic reactions and anaphylaxis is a risk especially if a large surface area is exposed to the cold such as when swimming in cold water. Cold-induced urticaria is the second most common type of chronic inducible urticaria and has been reported as early as 1866. It results in pruritic wheals with or without angioedema secondary to the release of leukotrienes, histamine and pro-inflammatory mast cell mediators after exposure of the skin to cold air, liquid or cold objects. A total of 50 patients were found to have active cold-induced urticaria with a median age of 28.5 (range 267) years and 35 patients (70%) were female. The majority of the people affected are young adults and females seem to be affected more frequently. Cold-induced urticaria is divided into primary and secondary forms and there have been many associations reported in the literature. The investigation into and diagnosis of other physical urticarias was initiated based on the patients clinical history. A total of 59 patients were identified as having a clinical suspicion of cold-induced urticaria and had cold provocation testing performed using the ice cube test. Of these patients, 84.7% tested positive and 15.3% tested negative. Pharmacologic treatment was prescribed for 49 patients (98%) with active urticaria. The majority of patients with cold-induced urticaria (90%) used non-sedating antihistamines as part of their treatment plan. Cold-induced urticaria is a complex disease with significant overlap with other chronic inducible urticarias and other allergic diseases. Diagnostic testing shows inconsistent results and the mainstay of treatment consists of non-sedating antihistamines, with other options available for those who do not respond.
  • #32 Cold Urticaria: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
    https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/diseases/cold-urticaria/
    Cold urticaria, a rare condition characterized by an allergic reaction to cold temperatures, can significantly impact the quality of life of those affected. […] Symptoms may vary in intensity and can include: […] One of the most common symptoms is the appearance of hives or welts on the skin exposed to cold. […] Cold exposure can also lead to angioedema, which is swelling beneath the skin. […] In severe cases, cold urticaria can cause systemic reactions such as anaphylaxis. […] Additional symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, and a general feeling of malaise.
  • #33 Urticaria and Other Skin Allergy | Allergy UK | National Charity
    https://www.allergyuk.org/types-of-allergies/urticaria-hives-other-skin-allergy/
    People living with CSU experience unpredictable outbreaks of itchy and painful wheals which can have a knock-on effect on their work, sleep, hobbies and social activities. Nearly three quarters of people living with CSU report having to miss out on social occasions because of their skin condition. […] Most people living with the condition experience symptoms of CSU for at least a year, with a considerable proportion of people experiencing symptoms for much longer. […] The unpredictable nature of CSU has a strong emotional and psychological impact and is associated with a more substantial effect on quality of life than other skin conditions.
  • #34 Cold-Induced Hives – Your Great Skin
    https://www.yourgreatskin.com/cold-induced-hives/
    If you develop welts or an itchy rash on your skin after you come in from the cold or after getting out of a swimming pool, it may be an allergic reaction or condition known as cold urticaria. Symptoms usually start in early adulthood and may also include lightheadedness, a swelling in the throat and a burning sensation on the surface of the skin. […] In some people, cold urticaria goes away on its own after weeks or months. In others, it lasts longer. There is no cure for the condition, but treatment and preventive steps can help such as: […] Most people rely on lifestyle changes to avoid flare-ups, but cold urticaria doesn’t affect everyone in the same way. If you have experienced potential symptoms of cold urticaria, set up a consultation with Dr. Monique S. Cohn online.
  • #35 Taking the Itch Out of Winter – The Asthma & Allergy Center
    https://www.asthmaandallergycenter.com/article/taking-itch-winter-2/
    Although cold urticaria symptoms usually happen while outside on cold, windy or rainy days, fatalities following swimming have been reported among those with the condition. […] People with cold urticaria symptoms should be aware that swimming or taking a cold bath/shower could potentially be dangerous, even fatal.
  • #36 Cold Urticaria And Cold Allergy: Not A Joke! | Mitchell Medical Group
    https://www.mitchellmedicalgroup.com/blog/cold-urticaria-and-cold-allergy-not-a-joke/
    Cold urticaria refers to the condition where a patient that is exposed to cold air or water develops hives (urticarial) and even swelling (angioedema). […] If a patient with cold urticaria goes outside in this current bitter cold weather without gloves, a scarf, and a ski mask, by the time they get indoors they may find the following things have happened: Their hands have swollen, they have hives on their neck and face, they have swollen lips. […] Patients with cold urticaria also need to be careful with cold drinks, as this can cause swelling in the throat. […] The skin won’t start to welt or swell until it starts to rewarm. This will take at least 15 minutes from when the ice is removed, so if you do the test and don’t wait, you can miss the diagnosis. […] The other good news is that an older type of antihistamine called cyproheptadine is especially effective at preventing and reducing symptoms if cold exposure is unavoidable.
  • #37 Florida Dermatologist FAQ: Cold Urticaria – Welts on Skin Due to Cold Temperature Could be Hives – Suncoast Skin Solutions
    https://www.suncoastskin.com/florida-dermatologist-faq-cold-urticaria-welts-on-skin-due-to-cold-temperature-could-be-hives/
    The symptoms of cold urticaria include developing welts or an itchy rash after coming in from cold (especially on exposed skin), swelling of the throat or lips after eating or drinking something frozen, and/or developing an itchy rash or feeling faint after being in cold water. […] People with this medical issue develop hives, or welts on their skin (that usually itch) when exposed to the cold. […] The patient should inform their dermatologist if they develop any of these signs and symptoms when exposed to cold: Welts, at times itchy; Swelling and redness on skin exposed to the cold; Burning sensation; Lightheadedness or fainting; Swollen lips or inflammation in the throat. […] Most individuals with cold urticaria develop a welt on their skin after the bag is removed and their skin warms up. It is possible to have cold urticaria even if the patient does not develop a welt from the ice cube challenge test.
  • #38 Urticaria (hives) – Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia
    https://allergyfacts.org.au/__interest/urticaria/
    Urticaria can last minutes to hours and sometimes even days to weeks. The length of the urticaria depends on the type. […] Urticaria due to allergic reactions: Urticaria can be a sign of a mild to moderate allergic reaction to food, insects, medicines or other allergens. […] Urticaria from cold can be severe, especially when swimming in cold water. Some people have been known to have symptoms of anaphylaxis due to cold urticaria. […] Chronic spontaneous urticaria: Wheals appear without an obvious cause on most days of the week for six weeks or more. The wheals may come and go and can appear anywhere on the body. There may also be swelling or angioedema. […] Physical urticaria: Wheals are caused by a known physical cause. This may include scratching or friction (dermographism), cold (cold urticaria), sunlight (solar urticaria), increased body heat (cholinergic urticaria), pressure (delayed pressure urticaria) or vibration. People with physical urticaria do not react to all the causes listed; often, they only react to one.