Cold Urticaria: Symptoms and Treatment

Cold urticaria is a skin condition that causes hives, redness, itching, and swelling after exposure to cold temperatures.

Causes

The exact cause is often unknown. Some cases have been associated with infections, blood disorders, or rare inherited forms of the condition.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Redness and itchy welts
• Burning or tingling skin
• Swelling after exposure to cold air or water
• In some cases, dizziness or fainting

Symptoms may appear within minutes of cold exposure and can last for hours. In rare cases, severe reactions can occur.

Treatment

Antihistamines may help control symptoms. Doctors may recommend other treatments for persistent or severe cases. Avoid sudden exposure to cold water, as it can trigger a dangerous reaction.

Important: Difficulty breathing, throat swelling, or fainting requires immediate emergency medical attention.