Every winter people complain that they need to be in a warm climate because they are \u201callergic\u201d to the cold. While we think most are just trying to dramatize the effects of the cold weather in reality, there are some people who actually are allergic to the cold. The condition known as \u201cCold Urticaria\u201d is brought on by exposure to the cold. It is caused by the body\u2019s release of histamine i to the blood stream. the same chemical that gets released during an allergic reaction. This condition may be either an inherited trait or due to a virus.
\nSome of the signs and symptoms are:
\n\u2022\u00a0Reddish hives on skin that was exposed to the cold
\n\u2022\u00a0Hands that swell when they come in contact with cold objects
\n\u2022\u00a0Swelling of the lips, tongue\u00a0 and throat when touched by cold liquids
\n\u2022\u00a0Heart palpitations or fainting might occur in extreme cases.
\n\u2022\u00a0Headaches, fever and joint pain.
\nThe effects of this allergic occurs when the temperature drops below 39 degrees but can also present\u00a0 at higher temperatures. The condition is usually limited to the part of the body that has been exposed but can have a full body effect if a person goes swimming in cold water or if they aren\u2019t properly dressed in cold weather. One of the ways that it is diagnosed is by placing an ice cube on the skin for five minutes to see if there are any signs of a rash.
\nTreatment options include taking antihistamines, which will help ease the symptoms, avoiding extreme cold and making sure that you don\u2019t leave areas of the body exposed in cold weather .
\nPeople who have cold urticaria should see a dermatologist to obtain prescription medications which may help to ease the symptoms. To schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.<\/p>\n
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Every winter people complain that they need to be in a warm climate because they are \u201callergic\u201d to the cold. While we think most are just trying to dramatize the effects of the cold weather in reality, there are some … Continue reading