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How does an allergy to cold manifest itself: the main symptoms
Most often, the manifestations of cold allergies are similar to the manifestations of allergic dermatitis. A person suffering from a cold allergy already after a few minutes of being outside in winter has pain and itching on the skin, the skin turns red, pink or whitish spots of various sizes and blisters appear. Allergy to cold mainly manifests itself on the face and those parts of the body that are less protected from the effects of cold (for example, the neck not covered with a scarf). It is also possible to have a cold allergy on the hands and feet in the form of redness, piercings and itching, since there are often no gloves on the hands, and only tights or trousers protect the calves, knees and hips from the cold, unlike warm jackets and coats on the upper body. On the face, a cold allergy manifests itself in the form of swollen lips and eyes, redness on the cheeks, cracks on the lips and in the corners of the mouth.
There are also frequent manifestations of cold allergies in the form of conjunctivitis (swelling, redness, eye inflammation, lacrimation) or rhinitis (runny nose, hoarse voice, dry cough).
In some cases, the dermatological reaction spreads to larger areas of the body, the general state of health worsens, weakness is felt, the temperature may rise, the heartbeat becomes more frequent, and a headache occurs. Symptoms persist for up to several hours and most often resolve shortly after returning to warmth.
Causes of allergy to cold air
The manifestation of cold allergy is associated with dysfunction of the body’s immune system. Scientists have not yet been able to identify the exact causes of this pathology. Presumably, in the body of some people with hypersensitivity, certain types of proteins are synthesized, under the influence of which histamine, a mediator of allergic reactions, is activated. As a result, the reaction of the organism to a physical phenomenon – cold – is similar to the reaction upon collision with allergenic substances.
In rare cases, cold allergies are hereditary.
The following factors can provoke an allergy to cold:
- general predisposition to allergies;
- transferred infections (syphilis, infectious mononucleosis, hepatitis C);
- hemophilia, autoimmune diseases, systemic vasculitis, malignant neoplasms;
- taking certain drugs (oral contraceptives, griseofulfin, tetanus serum);
- bathing in cold water or dousing with cold water for the purpose of hardening;
- a sharp change in temperature when leaving a warm room on the street in winter;
- being outdoors in strong winds;
- very cold drinks and ice cream.
How is cold allergy diagnosed?
If you suspect that you are allergic to cold, you can conduct a simple test at home. Place an ice cube on your wrist for 4 minutes and evaluate the effect within 10-20 minutes. If swelling, blisters, itching and burning occur, then the test is considered positive. With high sensitivity to cold, the reaction can occur within 30 seconds, with less pronounced sensitivity, it sometimes stretches up to 20 minutes. In case of an acute allergic reaction to a low temperature, it is necessary to immediately consult a doctor for laboratory diagnostics. In addition to a detailed survey of the patient in order to clarify symptoms, heredity, the presence of chronic diseases, lifestyle, etc., doctors conduct blood and urine tests, and do skin tests. However, it is necessary to take into account the fact that this type of allergy is not so common, and even laboratory diagnosis can be difficult.
How to get rid of allergy to cold?
As in cases with other types of allergies, first of all, you need to eliminate the irritant, that is, stay in the cold as little as possible. If itching, redness, tingling, slight swelling appear, you should go into a warm room with severe swelling and a sharp deterioration in well-being, you should immediately contact a medical institution. With all types of allergies, there is a risk of developing Quincke’s edema (suffocation) or anaphylactic shock (a sharp critical drop in blood pressure), therefore, in case of an acute allergic reaction, one should not self-medicate and postpone a visit to a specialist.
Doctors may prescribe various medications to relieve cold allergy symptoms. Underlying diseases that may contribute to the onset of cold urticaria should be identified, for example, treatment of hepatitis C may lead to resolution of symptoms of urticaria.
Skin care: La Roche-Posay products
With a cold allergy, the skin is very sensitive, prone to dryness and flaking, so it needs special care. To improve blood circulation, it is useful to regularly massage the face with light movements. Hardware cosmetic procedures during the period of exacerbation of cold urticaria must be abandoned.
Regular use of La Roche-Posay cosmetic care products will help soothe irritated skin, remove the feeling of dryness and tightness, and improve the protective function of the skin. Toleriane* Gamma has products designed specifically for sensitive, allergy-prone skin.
TOLERIANE* CLEANSING GEL TREATMENT TOLERIANE cleansing gel-care for washing is designed for sensitive skin care. Soft gel without foaming ingredients gently cleanses the skin and is suitable for removing make-up (except for the area around the eyes).
The active cleansing formula contains 3 soothing ingredients:
- Niacinamide soothes and relieves discomfort,
- Panthenol restores and softens the skin,
- La Roche-Posay thermal water soothes and protects the skin.
The formula is enriched with Ceramide to help maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier to retain moisture.
* Tolerable
Effectively cleanses, soothes and relieves discomfort, softens and restores
Toleriane Cleansing Gel Treatment — Where can one buy:
At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces
TOLERIANE ULTRA DERMALLERGO SERUM** For hypersensitive and allergy-prone skin of the face and the area around the eyes, prone to irritation, redness, reactions to external factors. Hypersensitive and allergy-prone skin is characterized by a weakened natural barrier that is responsible for protecting the skin from external factors. The light, non-sticky texture of the serum is instantly absorbed, providing a long-lasting feeling of comfort. Suitable as a base for make-up.
** Toleran Ultra Dermallergo
Increases skin resistance to allergens, intensively soothes the skin
Toleriane Ultra dermallergo — Where can one buy:
At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces
TOLERIANE DERMALLERGO*** CREAM
Intensive care visibly soothes, moisturizes and reduces the manifestations of skin sensitivity: flaking, tightness, dryness and discomfort. Restores and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier. Apply morning and evening to face, neck and eye area. Cream texture for dry skin.
* **Tolerated Dermallergo
Intensely soothes, regenerates and protects the skin
TOLERIANE DERMALLERGO Cream — Where can one buy:
At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces
TOLERIANE DERMALLERGO SOOTHING NIGHT CARE
The Dermallergo treatment visibly soothes, moisturizes and reduces the signs of skin sensitivity: flaking, tightness, dryness and discomfort. Restores and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier while you sleep.
Tested under dermatological control. Hypoallergenic. Doesn’t clog pores. 0% fragrances, ethyl alcohol, dyes, parabens.
Intensely soothes, regenerates and protects the skin
Toleriane Dermallergo Cream — Where can one buy:
At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces
TOLERIANE DERMALLERGO FOR EYE CONTOUR
Do you have hypersensitive skin around the eyes that reacts to external influences? Soothing care Toleriane Dermallergo is suitable even for application to the moving eyelid, reduces the discomfort of the skin around the eyes associated with environmental exposure, constant work at the computer, wearing contact lenses. Hypoallergenic. 0% fragrances ethyl alcohol, dyes, parabens. Tested under dermatological control. Lightweight and soft texture.
Reduces swelling and discomfort of the skin around the eyes.
TOLERIANE DERMALLERGO eye contour — Where can one buy:
At the moment, La Roche-Posay products are not available for purchase in the official online store. You can purchase our products in other channels you know – in pharmacies, other authorized partners and online marketplaces
preventive measures
If there is a predisposition to other types of allergies, it is worth taking a number of precautions to avoid the development of cold urticaria. In particular, dress warmly on cold days, do not neglect a hat, gloves, warm shoes and prevent hypothermia of the body, do not inhale deeply frosty air. It is recommended to choose layered clothing made of soft fabrics. Long walks are best left for spring and summer. In winter, you should especially give preference to proven cosmetics. Before going outside, it is useful to drink a hot drink (not alcohol!). A nourishing protective cream with a dense texture should be applied to the face and hands, and lip balm or hygienic lipstick should be used.
In order to avoid manifestations of cold allergies, you should not swim in cold reservoirs and pools, it is better to refuse hardening douches, do not drink icy spring water and drinks with a lot of ice, let ice cream melt slightly. Antihistamines must be present in the home first aid kit. It is important to remember that taking such drugs should be carried out in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. In addition, a number of antihistamines have a sedative effect, and this can affect performance and concentration.