Cold allergy, medically known as cold urticaria, has been affecting me since high school. Back then, I had no idea what was causing those uncomfortable rashes and itching on my hands after brief exposure to cold weather. It took several years and many tests to discover that I had cold allergy, a condition affecting up to 0.05-0.1% of people. I started looking for ways to cope with it. While prevention is the best protection, you can't exactly stay indoors forever.
In this article, I'll tell you what causes cold allergy, how it manifests, how to treat it, and what has personally helped me.
What is Cold Allergy?
Cold allergy is an immune system response to low temperatures. When exposed to cold, the body releases histamine, which causes allergic symptoms. This reaction can be triggered by contact with cold air, water, or even cold surfaces. The severity of reactions varies among individuals, ranging from mild rashes to life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Cold Allergy Symptoms
- Skin reactions: Redness, itching, or rashes on skin exposed to cold.
- Swelling: Particularly on hands, face, or lips when in contact with cold water or air.
- Systemic reactions: In severe cases, breathing difficulties, rapid heartbeat, or anaphylactic shock requiring immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing Cold Allergy
Diagnosis is typically made by an allergist or dermatologist using the ice cube test. Pressing an ice cube against the skin for 3-5 minutes will cause a rash or swelling in patients with this allergy.
What Causes Cold Allergy?
The exact cause of cold allergy isn't fully understood, but it's believed to be a combination of genetic and immunological factors. In some individuals, this reaction is associated with other health conditions, such as infections or autoimmune disorders. Inflammatory processes in the body may also play a significant role.
Risk Factors:
- Genetics: Cold allergy can be hereditary in some cases.
- Inflammation or infection: Cold allergy often appears after infections like mononucleosis.
- Autoimmune disorders: Higher risk in people with other allergies or autoimmune conditions.
What Helps with Cold Allergy?
Since I scratch until I bleed in winter and can't spend the entire cold season indoors, I've tried almost every cream on the market. After years of searching and testing, I had a special line of creams and products custom-made specifically for cold allergy, which is also suitable for people prone to atopy and eczema.
Recommended Products
Natural Nourishing Body Cream AtopCare 330 ml. This cream is ideal for people with atopic dermatitis and those with very sensitive or dry skin. It contains:
- Oat grain extract: Soothes irritation and reduces inflammation.
- Vitamin E: Protects skin from harmful environmental effects and supports regeneration.
- Hop extract: Has anti-inflammatory and hydrating effects. The cream is 99% natural, free from parabens, silicones, and artificial dyes.
Additional Recommended Products
Natural Nourishing Body Oil AtopCare 200 ml. This oil is suitable for hydrating and nourishing the entire body, including skin prone to atopy. It contains:
- Almond, oat, hemp, and sunflower oil: These natural ingredients intensively hydrate and restore the skin's lipid barrier.
- Squalane and Emolid® CC: Active ingredients that soften the skin and protect against dryness. The oil is 100% natural, easily absorbed, and leaves skin soft and supple.
Living with Cold Allergy
Cold allergy can be challenging, but with appropriate measures, its impact on daily life can be minimized. Prevention is important, but so is being prepared for unexpected situations.
Practical Tips
- Appropriate clothing: Layer up before going outside and protect exposed body parts. It's advisable to use thermal underwear and clothing or ultra-light nanomaterial layers originally developed for healthcare that effectively wick away sweat.
- Hydration: Use the aforementioned hydrating creams that create a protective barrier on the skin.
- Medications at hand: Always carry antihistamines and, in case of more severe reactions, an adrenaline auto-injector.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience more severe reactions such as airway swelling or anaphylaxis, immediate medical attention is necessary. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention.
FAQ: Common Questions About Cold Allergy
How to get rid of cold allergy?
Cold allergy cannot be completely cured, but its symptoms can be effectively managed through prevention, such as wearing warm clothing, using special creams, and taking antihistamines.
What are the symptoms of cold allergy?
Symptoms include redness, itching, rashes, swelling, or even coughing and runny nose after exposure to cold.
Can cold allergy cause coughing or runny nose?
Yes, some people may experience cold-like symptoms such as runny nose or coughing due to cold air irritating their airways.
What are the experiences with cold allergy in children?
Cold allergy can also occur in children, often manifesting as rashes on hands or face. Skin protection and using gentle products are essential.
Is there a psychosomatic connection to cold allergy?
Some experts suggest that stress and psychological factors may worsen cold allergy symptoms.
How is cold allergy diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves an ice cube test, where skin reaction to cold is monitored.
