Some people are familiar with this rare condition. Unfortunately, it causes them much trouble, especially in the fall and winter. After contact with something cold, a person experiences bad signs. It can be itching, swelling, redness, or hives. So, sometimes a person steps outside into the cold and sometimes touches something cold. We’re all familiar with this to some extent. Too much cold can cause dry and irritated skin.
In most cases, cold-weather urticaria occurs without a clear cause. But one thing is important: see a doctor immediately. Let’s learn more about cold-weather skin allergies so you know what you’re dealing with.
Impact of Cold Weather on Skin Allergies
The incidence of allergic diseases has increased significantly in recent decades, with extreme temperatures being the main contributing factor. Numerous studies have examined the impact of climatic factors, particularly low and high temperatures, on the skin barrier and the development of atopic dermatitis. Epidemiological data show that children born in cold seasons (fall and winter) are at higher risk of developing AD. Low and high temperatures are associated with increased itching, skin rashes, increased outpatient clinic visits, skin barrier impairment, and a higher rate of asthma exacerbations.
Extreme temperatures can trigger the release of proinflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators (including IL-1β, thymic stromal lymphopoietin, and prostaglandin E2). These, in turn, activate TRPV ion channels (TRPV1, TRPV3, and TRPV4). This leads to itching, inflammation, and worsening of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Targeting these TRPV pathways with specific antagonists may help reduce temperature-induced itching, inflammation, and skin barrier damage.
Temperature changes alter the skin’s exposure to ultraviolet radiation, air pollutants, and humidity, disrupting the skin barrier and accelerating oxidative stress, photoaging, and inflammation. Understanding the biological mechanisms linking climate change and allergic inflammation is important. This will help develop effective strategies for allergy prevention and treatment.
Occurrence of Allergic Reactions to Cold Temperatures
Let’s explain the main things. This condition occurs when exposure to cold triggers the release of histamine. It’s a special chemical responsible for allergic reactions. The exact trigger for this immune reaction remains unclear, and doctors are still trying to unravel the cause.
Some common triggers include:
- Applying ice or cold compresses to the skin.
- Consuming cold drinks or foods.
- Bathing or swimming in cold water.
- Walking outdoors in winter.
Patients with this unpleasant condition may notice a rash or hives within some minutes of their skin warming up after exposure to cold.
Types of Cold-Induced Urticaria
Let’s look at the most common types.
Familial (Hereditary) Cold Urticaria
This is a rare hereditary form. Symptoms may appear later, sometimes taking 30 minutes to 48 hours. In this case, symptoms can persist for one to two days.
Acquired (Essential) Cold Urticaria
This type is the most common. Doctors diagnose it most often. This condition occurs suddenly, and there is no family history. You’ll notice reactions within minutes of exposure to cold. Fortunately, symptoms usually subside within an hour or two.
Who Is at Risk?
Cold urticaria can develop in anyone. However, this condition is sometimes associated with other medical conditions, including:
- Cryoglobulinemia (abnormal proteins in the blood that react to cold).
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia or lymphosarcoma.
- Syphilis and other infectious diseases.
- Viral infections, such as mononucleosis or chickenpox.
This condition most often occurs spontaneously, with no known family history.
Symptoms of Cold-Related Skin Issues
Is the air getting colder and drier? Your skin often loses moisture and becomes irritated. A lack of moisture can lead to winter rash, which is dry, itchy, or inflamed skin that appears during the colder months. People with healthy skin can experience winter rash, especially in cold or damp climates. This condition is common and tends to recur every year. Unfortunately, without proper care, it can last all winter. Proper skin care and simple lifestyle changes can help prevent and manage winter irritation.
The symptoms of cold urticaria vary widely. Some people experience mild redness or itching. In others, a doctor may diagnose swelling and more severe reactions. Typical symptoms include bloody spots, blisters, raised red spots, itching, and burning. Some people experience swelling of exposed skin, especially the hands, face, or lips. Fatigue, fever, or joint pain are also possible. Severe reactions may include dizziness or fainting, shortness of breath, or wheezing. Rapid heartbeat or anaphylaxis is potentially severe. Cold urticaria is not contagious, although it can occur with viral infections.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually straightforward. Your doctor may perform a cold test. The specialist will apply an ice cube to the skin for several minutes. If hives appear after removing the ice, the test is positive. In cases of a hereditary predisposition, the doctor may conduct a longer diagnosis. Additional blood tests can help identify underlying conditions or infections.
Treatment and Management
The best approach is to avoid exposure to cold whenever possible. If you have frequent or severe reactions, consider the following treatment options. Antihistamines block the release of histamine and can prevent or reduce symptoms. They can be taken before or after cold exposure.
Desensitization therapy, under the supervision of a doctor, can help the body adapt over time. Specialists use epinephrine for severe allergic reactions. An injectable medication may be helpful in chronic cases. Is your cold allergy associated with another condition? If so, treatment will initially target this underlying condition.
Home Care for Cold-Weather Eczema
The main goal of treatment is to restore the skin’s protective barrier and retain moisture. Use thick creams or ointments immediately after showering. Take warm, not hot, showers. Hot water exacerbates dryness. Gentle cleansers without alcohol or fragrances and with a neutral pH will benefit your skin. A doctor will prescribe topical corticosteroid creams for severe inflammation and itching. Compresses reduce itching and irritation. Maintain indoor humidity at 40-50%. Enrich your diet with vitamin D and omega-3. This will help support immune function and skin health.
Final Takeaway…
In most cases, cold urticaria is temporary. If done correctly, you will definitely feel relief over time. Avoid known triggers, take prescribed medications, and be prepared for emergencies. Most people lead active lives daily with proper care and under a doctor’s supervision. The key is to choose the right allergy specialist. Our doctors are highly experienced and use a personalized approach. Do you have seasonal skin irritation? We are always happy to help you. Contact us!
