Table of Contents
- What is Cold Urticaria?
- Main Symptoms and Manifestations
- Why Does Cold Urticaria Occur? (Causes)
- Diagnosis and Treatment Methods
- Prevention and Management Tips in Daily Life
- Cold Urticaria, Conquerable with Knowledge and Action!
In winter, when cold winds blow and temperatures drop sharply, some people complain of red and itchy skin. For them, winter can be a painful time when their skin feels under attack. This is 'cold urticaria'. Cold urticaria is an unpredictable skin reaction that can occur when exposed to cold air, cold water, and even when consuming cold food. What is the secret behind this condition, which is different from simple dry skin or feeling cold? Today, we will delve deeply into the main symptoms, causes, accurate diagnosis and treatment, and effective prevention and management tips that can be practiced in daily life, all from an expert's perspective. Let's find ways to protect our skin from this unwelcome guest together!
1. What is Cold Urticaria?
Cold Urticaria is a type of specific allergic reaction where hives appear on the skin when exposed to cold stimuli.
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Concept:
It is an allergic skin reaction that occurs when skin exposed to cold temperatures (cold air, cold water, ice, etc.) develops red, itchy wheals (hives) and swelling. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the individual's constitution.
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Characteristics:
It usually appears localized to the areas directly exposed to cold stimuli, but in severe cases, it can spread throughout the body. The itching tends to worsen as the affected area warms up again after cold exposure. Hives usually disappear spontaneously within a few hours, but recurrent occurrences can significantly impair quality of life.
2. Main Symptoms and Manifestations
Symptoms of cold urticaria vary from person to person, but generally exhibit the following characteristics:
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Main Symptoms:
- Red Wheals (Hives): Red, swollen rashes appear on the skin, which can look like mosquito bites.
- Intense Itching: Unbearable itching accompanies the hives.
- Swelling: The area around the hives may swell. If it occurs around the lips or eyes, swelling can be noticeable.
- Burning/Stinging Sensation: Along with itching, a burning or stinging sensation may be present.
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Manifestations:
Symptoms typically begin within minutes of cold exposure, peak after 15-30 minutes, and usually disappear within 1-2 hours.
- Cold Air Exposure: Exposed areas like the face and hands during winter outings.
- Cold Water Contact: Washing face with cold water, showering, swimming, etc.
- Cold Food/Drink Consumption: Symptoms may appear on the lips, tongue, or throat when consuming ice cream or cold beverages. (Severe cases risk respiratory distress)
- Contact with Cold Objects: Ice packs, cold compresses, etc.
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Severe Cases:
If the entire body is exposed to cold stimuli (e.g., immersion in cold water), or in highly sensitive individuals, generalized hives, low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, headache, and in severe cases, symptoms similar to respiratory distress or anaphylactic shock can occur, requiring caution.
3. Why Does Cold Urticaria Occur? (Causes)
The exact cause of cold urticaria is often unclear, but there are several hypothesized mechanisms.
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Idiopathic (Unknown Cause):
Most cases of cold urticaria occur without any specific underlying disease, which is called 'idiopathic cold urticaria'. It is presumed that when cold stimuli touch the skin, mast cells in the skin are activated for unknown reasons, releasing various chemical substances including histamine. These substances then dilate blood vessels, causing swelling and itching.
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Acquired (Associated with Specific Diseases):
In some patients, it may occur in association with underlying conditions such as infections (viral, bacterial, etc.), autoimmune diseases (lupus, thyroid disease, etc.), leukemia, lymphoma, or certain medications (e.g., penicillin). In such cases, treating the underlying disease can improve cold urticaria symptoms.
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Histamine Release Mechanism:
When cold stimuli touch the skin, 'mast cells' within the skin overreact and release a large amount of histamine. Histamine is a primary mediator of allergic reactions, causing blood vessel dilation and increased permeability, leading to redness, swelling, and itching of the skin.
4. Diagnosis and Treatment Methods
Cold urticaria is relatively easy to diagnose, and there are various treatment options available to alleviate symptoms.
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Diagnosis:
The most common diagnostic method is the 'Ice Cube Test'. An ice cube is placed on the inner forearm for 3-5 minutes and then removed. If red, swollen hives appear in the area within 10 minutes, cold urticaria can be diagnosed. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for underlying diseases if necessary.
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Treatment:
While there is no definitive cure for cold urticaria, there are effective methods for symptom relief.
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Antihistamines:
These are the most commonly used medications, suppressing the action of histamine to relieve hives and itching. Non-drowsy antihistamines are typically prescribed, and consistent use is important for symptom control.
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Steroids:
Can be used short-term when symptoms are very severe or not controlled by antihistamines alone. Long-term use carries a risk of side effects, so it should be used under a doctor's guidance.
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Omalizumab:
An injectable treatment used for chronic, difficult-to-treat patients who do not respond to conventional therapies. It works by inhibiting Immunoglobulin E (IgE), which triggers allergic reactions.
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Immunosuppressants, etc.:
In some cases, other immunosuppressants or leukocyte receptor inhibitors may be considered.
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Antihistamines:
5. Prevention and Management Tips in Daily Life
Prevention and daily management are extremely important for cold urticaria. Practice the following tips to minimize symptoms.
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Maintain Body Temperature and Insulate Thoroughly:
This is the most basic and crucial preventive measure. When going out, thoroughly cover exposed areas with scarves, gloves, and hats to prevent body temperature from dropping. Especially protect hands and feet with socks and gloves.
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Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes:
Abrupt temperature changes, such as moving suddenly from a cold to a warm place, or putting hands into cold water after being in a warm place, are prone to inducing hives. Try to adapt to temperature changes gradually.
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Limit Cold Food/Drinks:
Cold beverages or ice cream can induce hives on the lips, tongue, and throat. In severe cases, they can lead to airway swelling and respiratory distress, so avoid them if possible or consume lukewarm foods.
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Prepare in Advance:
In situations where you might be exposed to cold water, such as swimming or outdoor activities, it is essential to prepare by showering with lukewarm water or doing sufficient warm-up exercises to raise your body temperature before slowly entering the water.
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Thorough Skin Moisturizing:
Dry skin can react more sensitively to external stimuli. It is advisable to regularly apply sufficient moisturizer to maintain a strong skin barrier.
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Avoid Aggravating Factors:
Overwork, stress, certain medications, and infections can worsen urticaria symptoms. Be mindful of your condition and consult with a doctor regarding medication use.
6. Cold Urticaria, Conquerable with Knowledge and Action!
By accurately understanding this condition and consistently following preventive measures in daily life, you can effectively manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. If symptoms are severe or recurrent, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This winter, let's uncover the secrets of cold urticaria and protect our skin healthily!