Cold allergy manifests itself in just a few minutes. after exposure to low temperature in the form of rashes on open areas of the skin: on the face, hands, not often on the lips after drinking cold drinks. Rashes are quite dense, pink or whitish in color, accompanied by unbearable itching, as a consequence of urticaria, traditionally last for several hours, and then disappear without a trace. This reaction to cold can be repeated constantly.
There are other forms of this disease that occur in the presence of other diseases – thyroid disorders, lupus erythematosus, and are much more severe. Sometimes there is a rare form – hereditary, which is inherited. It is accompanied by a burning sensation, not itching, and is more a reaction of the body to the wind than to the cold.
But even the most seemingly harmless form of cold allergy is actually not so safe. First, it causes severe itching. Unpleasant sensations of discomfort unsettle a person for several hours. Secondly, the state of health worsens: headaches are found, arterial pressure decreases. In-30% of them, with general hypothermia of the body, more severe manifestations may appear – the so-called Quincke’s edema.
Therefore, it is very important for both the doctor and the patient to determine the nature of the allergic reaction in time. To do this, along with complex studies using special equipment, there are quite simple ways. To confirm the diagnosis of cold urticaria, use a regular piece of ice. Put it on the skin, for example, on the wrist and hold for 20 minutes. Then remove and see if there are rashes, if itching has appeared. If you have these symptoms, it can be assumed that you are predisposed to a cold allergy.
But remember that the ice cube test is only good for the simplest form of cold allergy, unrelated to other conditions. More complex types of allergic reactions to low temperatures that occur during general hypothermia of the body can be diagnosed if the reaction to ice is negative – there is no rash and itching. In such cases, another test is used to confirm the so-called generalized reaction – a deeper effect of cold. It is necessary to place the sick person in a room where the air temperature is only 40C for 20-30 minutes. In the presence of the disease, symptoms will necessarily appear – rash, swelling. Allergic reactions to cold associated with serious illness can only be determined in a clinical setting.
Cold allergy is most observed in young people, more often women suffer from it. In young women, it does not often begin as a consequence of infectious diseases. It is quite difficult to deal with it, because it is incredible to completely eliminate the allergen – cold. It is a mistake to believe that one can gradually get used to it. This is not true, allergic reactions will occur, but they will become even more difficult.
What to do at the first sign of a cold allergy?
You can immediately take any antihistamine product – tavegil, suprastin, claritin. In order to avoid health troubles in the off-season, in winter bad weather, try to minimize the effect of cold on the body. Warm scarves, hoods that protect from the wind and keep warm, long warm gloves should be part of your wardrobe. Before going outside, apply a thin layer of any oily cream on your face and hands – it will partially protect your skin from exposure to cold. But a fatty cream is contraindicated for the face of girls suffering from acne, because it clogs the pores. Hygienic lipstick in winter is useful for everyone.
However, it is wrong to believe that by taking a few pills, you can get rid of the disease. If an allergic reaction to cold appears constantly, it is imperative to find out if it is associated with any other disease. It is very important.