Cold Allergies and What Can Be Done About Them

People can develop allergies to a wide variety of things, including pollen, dust, animal dander, foods & viruses. Some individuals even have cold allergies.

Dr. Greene`s Answer:

The immune system is an intricate, interconnected network designed to protect our bodies from the dangers of the world around us, especially the danger of invasion from infectious organisms of all types or from the civil war of our own cancerous cells turned against us. The immune system includes many types of white blood cells, lymph vessels, lymph nodes, a host of specific antibodies, cilia (hair cells for sweeping away unwanted particles), the spleen, tonsils, adenoids, and our largest organ — the flexible, complex barrier we call skin.

An allergy happens when part of the immune system goes awry. In its enthusiasm to protect us, the response by the immune system is sometimes so exuberant that it is worse than whatever precipitated it. People can develop allergies to a wide variety of things, including pollen, dust, animal dander, foods, and viruses. Some individuals have an allergic response to being in cold air or water.

Symptoms of Cold Allergies

This allergic response can take several forms, from rashes to wheezing – and then some! The main symptoms might be on the skin, in the blood, in the urine, in the nose or in the chest. Cold allergies can even cause generalized fatigue and decreased ability to learn.

Some people develop hives on the skin when they encounter cold temperatures. This condition, called cold urticaria, is the most common type of hives caused by a physical condition. The hives are produced by a rapid release of histamine brought about by IgE antibodies and eosinophils (a type of white blood cell often involved in allergic reactions) in response to the cold. Rapid cooling, as from the evaporation when one gets out of a swimming pool, can trigger cold urticaria even on a warm day. For people with cold urticaria, swimming in very cold water is quite dangerous, sometimes even causing death.

Treatment for Cold Allergies

Treatment of cold urticaria involves avoiding the cold, when possible, and taking antihistamines. The antihistamines are best taken before exposure to cold temperatures to block some of the histamine release. Many of the over-the-counter antihistamines interfere with learning. I recommend a nonsedating drug, such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec).

Underlying Conditions

Sometimes cold urticaria is a symptom of another problem, such as cryofibrinogenemia, cryoglobulinemia, or syphilis. Even when it is not, you can develop cold urticaria after receiving a blood transfusion from someone who has it. Most people don’t know that allergies can be transmitted in transfusions, but they can (Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, WB Saunders, 2000)! For some people, cold urticaria is a lifelong condition; for others, it is temporary — only during and after an infection, such as mycoplasma or mononucleosis.

Both mononucleosis and mycoplasma infections can produce another type of cold allergy in the blood. Following these and a variety of other viral infections, exposure to the cold can cause anemia from allergic bursting of some of the red blood cells. Anemia can result in fatigue and other symptoms, including decreased ability to learn.

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria is another specific type of cold allergy, often associated with syphilis, in which cold temperatures make the urine turn red with blood. These people should avoid being chilled until the effects of the underlying infection have ended.

Cold Allergies Triggers

Breathing cold air can also trigger nasal congestion and wheezing. Sometimes this is a purely physical effect. This happens in two ways.

First, cold air affects an important defense mechanism called mucus transport. The entire respiratory system is coated with a very thin mucous blanket. Cold air stimulates an increase in mucus production, but mucus (like other substances), becomes thicker in colder temperatures.

The second area where cold air physically affects respiratory health is in the nose tissue. The hardy nose is a remarkable organ designed to condition inhaled air to protect the delicate internal structures. When breathing through the nose, you may breathe in air at 40 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit, but within a quarter of a second, the air temperature is quickly brought to 98.6. Many tiny blood vessels, known as capillaries, bring about this temperature exchange. When a person breathes cold air, the tissues lining the nose swell as the capillaries dilate, bringing warm blood to heat the cool air. Swollen capillaries in the nose are the cause of nasal congestion (nasal congestion is backed-up blood, not increased mucus). In addition to the congestion, the mucus in the nose, as we’ve said, increases and becomes thicker. This happens more in some people than in others. Thus cold air, by itself, can produce both nasal congestion and stuffiness. These can be treated with decongestants and/or antihistamines.

Cold Allergies Prevention

Sometimes the runny nose, congestion, and/or wheezing are a true allergic response to cold temperatures. If this is the case, preventive medicines such as cromolyn (Nasalcrom) or fluticasone (Flonase) can work well for the nose, and cromolyn (Intal), nedocromil (Tilade), fluticasone (Flovent) or the like, can work well to prevent wheezing. A variety of natural remedies have also been proven to help prevent these types of allergies, including quercetin/vitamin C, stinging nettle, saline nose drops, saline eye drops, and a nightly massage.

The most important step in treating allergies is to identify what triggers them. You are on your way, Pam, with the observation that cold causes your symptoms. Now that you know this, you can work with you doctor to find the best combination of treatments to keep your allergic response in check and allow your immune system to get on with more important business.

Dr. Greene is a practicing physician, author, national and international TEDx speaker, and global health advocate. He is a graduate of Princeton University and University of California San Francisco.

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  1. Fredy

    I’m 40 years old male. Perfectly healthy , however after I got allergy to dust , I had sore throat. And the next day I took shower I had all my body covered with hives & so itchy. I think it’ll be gone by the next day. I get out from the house the next day temperature was 30 F , I was only using my short pants and shirts. Usually nothing happens to me , within minutes my legs covered with lots of bumps. I confused why this happened to me. I googled to find what caused allergy to me. Is it possible because my allergic reaction to dust caused me to have sore throat triggered another allergy to cold ? This is the first time I have allergy to cold. I don’t take medication, so far I only drink ginger, honey & turmeric with honey. It doesn’t cure it but it seems ease my allergy to cold a little bit.

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  2. Bobby

    I have recently developed urticaria. I was told by my doctor to take Allegra 180mg twice a day. I don’t do well with antihistamines so I decided to start with children’s 30mg. I have learned that if I take the 30mg first thing in the morning, I have no symptoms the whole day. Just passing this along. It works for me.

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    • Hi Bobby,

      Fabulous tip. And great to hear it’s working for you.

      Best, @MsGreene
      Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

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  3. demeke

    Hi Dr. My sister expriences sever cough for more than 2 weeks after exposure cold air then she imptoves with treatement. Sometimes coughing associated with subcutanous swelling arround her back and breast but disappears after some days. Even with normal air condition she develops symptom when she sits arround window with glass. Is could be cold allergy? If so can antihistam treat it?
    Thank you

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  4. Eena

    Hi! I am recently diagnosed with Cold Urticaria. My hives usually appear after several minutes of being exposed to cold temperatures. I’ve had this since I was maybe in high school(can’t remember when exactly) but it got worse now. It started breaking out on my arms and legs the day I started my fasting (intermittent diet). I was shocked to see a lot of hives on my arms and legs. My doctor told me that it may be because my immune system was weak as I started fasting and was exposed to cold temperatures at work.

    I visited a dermatologist who performed a lot of blood tests (and they were all normal) and an ice test to see if it is really cold urticaria. I developed a giant hive on the area tested, hence positive.

    He gave me emergency meds (Prednisolone 40mg) to take for when the hives get severe. He also told me to carry antihistamines (I have all sorts of antihistamines Telfast, Claritin, Zyrtec name it I have it) in my pouch all the time.

    I have hives almost everyday as it is pretty cold in my workplace but I try not to take antihistamines as much because I don’t want my system to get used to it. I am also trying to frequently expose myself to cold temperatures in hopes that my system would eventually be used to it and not react to it anymore. I’m still testing this so i’m not really sure if it’ll work.

    I’m really hoping it’ll make me better as I will be traveling to Georgia (the country) in December and the temp there could be as low as -4 degree Celsius.

    I am very much interested to know how to survive winter with this condition. It will be my first time to experience winter so I am a bit worried. Thanks

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  5. ALAKANANI

    WHEN I GET CONTACT WITH SOMETHING COLD MORE SPECIAL IN THE MORNING MY SKIN GET ITCHING ON THE VERY PART THAT HAS CONTACTED THE COLDNESS. OR WHEN I GET EXPOSED TO COLD WHEATHER THE PART OF THE BODY THAT IS EXPOSED TO COLDNESS START ITCHING AND PROBABLY DEVELOP SOME RASH

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  6. Rajiv

    Hello sir or madam
    Whenever I drink cold water or eat cold substance then after sometimes I sneez for 2-3 times and some irritation(etching) occurs in ear or may be in nose .
    So please suggest me suitable treatment or remedy.
    As I am taking antidepressant from last 3 yrs so may be my problem is the side impact.

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  7. Sera Victoria

    Hello Dr Greene.

    I don’t get the hives but I am constantly sneezing and stuffy from the beginning of September when the hot weather starts to cool. I’ve had it for years since I was a child but never knew it was an allergy until last year when my gp told me after a routine blood test.

    I’m wondering if there’s a connection between this allergy and getting a really bad cold that lasts for days?

    Last year I had the allergy symptoms and end of October 2017 I had a bad cold, this year the same again just a bit earlier this time.

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  8. Alou

    Doctor, is it possible that my condition also is cold uticaria? My throat is allergic to cold water. Just a bit of cold food/water entering my mouth makes my throat hurts and sometimes it has pus in it. Been with this allergy for years. Now I have a cough and my throat is acting up again. What can I do to cure it?

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    • Cheryl

      You should ask to be tested for cryoglobulinmea

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  9. mohammed

    hi sir,
    every time my uncle breathe cold air, his head become cold and he suffers from runny nose . what is the cause of this condition ? is it a type of cold allergy or something else?
    and what is the treatment for his condition?

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  10. Ezeudu chidera joy

    Please sir i have been experiencing this rashes on different parts of my skin. It is very itchy and stings. It all started when i went to camp, the cold there was much. For the past one year it has been like this. I have tried so many drugs all to no avail. What should i do sir

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  11. jolly

    Whether it is cold allergy or not, my problems are chilling cold in both earlobes, spinal area, both elbows and both knees followed by heavy discharge of mucus from throat and nose continuously till warm clothes and cappings are put on. These occur mostly during winter season and when exposed to highly chilled AC. Even during sunny days I use to wear ear caps, elbow caps and knee caps and warm clothes.

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    • Pankaj Tatrari

      Same problem with me too this usually happens in winter season and whenever I got in cold temperature this shit started to grow.Its been five years now I am suffering from this all I need is take medicine whenever you need to go to cold climate . Isn’t there any solution for this problem.

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  12. Felicia Gune

    !!If you developed cold allergy/urticaria, check also your Vitamin D level.
    For me taking the D3 supplements(my level was 25ng/mL, normal range is considered 30-100, but found afterwards that optimum value would be around 80) was like a real miracle and the allergy disappeared(now my skin is back normal when and after spending time in cold weather, but still taking the supplements). I have developed cold urticaria on 1st of February 2017 and before finding about Vitamin D3(september 2017), took several other pills( Cetirizin, Loratadin and a lot of others antihistamine pills, several times I has treated with Prednison and also hydrocortisone succinat – no one was working totally fine). Before checking my Vitamin D levels, done a lot of blood tests (cryoglobulins, agglutinin to cold and a lot of others, but all of them were ok) and i had some serious episodes even in the summer after spending the night at less than 20 degrees Celsius. I have also Hashimotos Thyroiditis and somehow this helped me to understand that it might be a connection(mostly of the people with Hashimotos have D3 deficiency). It took me months to find a working solution and I think i have visited more than 15 doctors (allergologist, dermatologist, endocrinologist and other specialties and no one was able to figure out the cause or how this can be solved).
    If you are searching about the connection between allergy to cold and Vitamin D deficiency, on Google, you will find some studies and successful stories about it. As it took me months to find this solution for my health issue(almost all my free time I have spend on reading about allergy to cold), I am more than happy to share it with you and really hope that it will help you too. Checked this article and the comments several times to see if somebody else found any solution to it. Tried also with olive oil pills(as somebody recommended below), but for me it was not working. On facebook, there are some groups about Vitamin Defiency and for me was helpful to join them.

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  13. Roman Rex Chhetri

    Pleas help me fightthe cold alergy I get rushes all over body especially in limbs n digits as s soon as I took bath or use coldwater

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  14. Anne

    Could You possible tell me the source of your Info on mono causing cold urticaria , or where I can fing more info ? My daughter developed cold urticaria last right after having mono . It is hard to find info on it . All the dr.s we have seen including her allergist tell me I’m nuts , there is no correlation. Does getting the urticaria from mono make it more or less likely to be treatable ? How does the mono cause this?

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  15. Karakhan

    I’m a Indian my son is a problem all dr sa my son face in side all water infection I want a soulusan

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  16. Smriti

    sir i have a allergy to cold ,dust and many more .And whether its cold days or really hot and warm days ,everyday i have watery nose and eyes and this has been a huge problem to me.Also when i open an book which hadnt been open for many times or clean my clothes or whatever i do i will start sneezing continously for about aan hour and slowly it stops for that day. But again next day especially at the morning i will have same problem.Because of this i have visited to many physicians and they had recommended me many medicines and nasal sprays but its always the same.So plz help me what to do 😑

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  17. Basir

    Doc I have cold air as well allergy on temperature changes.Wearing a cap helps,in winter heaters also cause sneezing as cold air does.I take anti allergic medicines they help.Any advice.Nasal drip and mucus flows in cold air.

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  18. sheila sarreal

    Dr. Greene,
    i’m having a hives for more than 6 months. i took a skin test allergy ang having a result of allergy in eggplant, strawberries and seabass. for 2 weeks i stopped eating these 3 kind of food but my hives continuously appearing. sometimes it appears on my neck and face and have a difficulty in breathing. sometimes in hands and have a feeling of swollen hands. sometimes on the whole body starting on my hands, chest, tummy, on my back, neck and face. it feels so itchy. sometimes i first feel the sudden burning of my ear. can you help me on this matter or do you have any suggestion?

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  19. PIRATHEEPAN

    HI
    I HAVE SUFFERING FROM COLD AND FLU WHOLE YEAR SINCE 2013. I HAD SEPTUM DEVIATION SURGERY ON FEB 2016. I HAVE USED ALL THE ALLERGY TABLET AND SPARY . BUT I AM HAVING SAME PROBLEM TILL NOW. HOW CAN I GET BETTER FROM THIS WHAT TREATEMENT CAN I GET

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  20. Rosanne

    Dr. Greene: Thank you for such easy to understand explanations for my condition of always getting sick when sitting in cold room or under blowing a/c for more than 15 minutes. I have fluticasone and Advil cold and sinus. Will use both before going out. Here in So. Ca if temps go above 85 all restaurants and movies are 65 or so. Thanks again.

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  21. Akmal

    Dear Dr:
    This is Akmal from Kabul Afghanistan. Since last two weeks I see some allergy when I wash my hand and foots with cold water. After touching with the cold water, few minutes later till my hands and feet are wet, it is reacting with itching, pain and tingling. Can you recommend me the medicine.

    thax Akmal

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    • Hi Akmal. An antihistamine before washing with with cold water will often stop or decrease the reaction. Examples include cetirizine (Zyrtec) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Benadryl makes many people drowsy. Letting the water warm up a bit might solve the problem without medicine. All the best – DrGreene

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      • Akmal

        Many, many thanks

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      • Manini

        Is taking cetrizine over a long period harmful? I have severe rashes and itching when exposed to any temperature change. This is unbearable and cetrizine helps for a couple of days. Is it fine if I continue it for my life as this is a permanent condition?

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  22. Joan

    My Joan, from Nigeria. I usually have hitchy ear and throat any time I sit I inside air conditioner car or room and sometimes when I take cold fluid. My vocal cord is always stuck. Please help.

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    • Joan

      Still waiting for reply

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  23. Debra andres

    Dr Green I’ve had Sevier cold uricartia since grade school. It has only gotten worse over time. I am now 58 about five years ago o started breaking out from​ the sun
    With the cold I can get total body welts
    With the sun I get instant open sores
    Help?

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    • Waseem

      I have allergy when I start AC in my room cold comes ranny nose sneezing comes I take to much medicine but not clear

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  24. simon

    hi Dr green
    I have runing nose and difficut in breathing(congestion ,wheezing ) in cold weather less than18°c
    so what can i do pze help me!

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  25. Tameron

    A few years ago by brother threw me wet with cold water, after a few minutes my body started developing hives and my hands and feet swelled up. I got dizzy after a few minutes in the cold. and I was on the verge of fainting… can u explain it please

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    • Marianne Vennitti

      I’d look into Cryoglobulinemia

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  26. Steven

    About two weeks ago I suddenly developed Cold Urticaria. A lot of different circumstances lined up to be the possible cause including unprotected sex two weeks prior, an early start to spring and the flu season, dyshidrotic eczema, passing exposure to potentially sick individuals, tooth pain, and the appearance of a black spot under my left pinky toe that I hope to God all mighty is just mold.

    The only symptoms of illness I’ve really suffered is a sore/dry/scratchy throat and what I can only describe as an oddness within my mouth particularly on the roof and on my tongue which for a time became extremely sensitive. There was what I can only describe as a bumpiness or roughness present on a corner of the roof of my mouth and then on my gums however that went away after a few days of washing my mouth out with peroxide. These bumps were colorless and not painful. The patch on the roof of my mouth became rough and developed into a pale spot before disappearing within a couple of days.

    I’ve been having very mild abdominal pangs but that could be my inguinal hernia, my eyes also feel “swollen” though they are not bloodshot and I do have to stare at a monitor all day. I see spots if I shift them suddenly to far left or right. I have had gingivitis for quite some time and there is always the possibility that it’s developed into periodontitis (which may be the case considering a small gap between on of my teeth and the surrounding gums.).

    Otherwise I’ve not experienced fever, pain, congestion, I’ve coughed a grand total of maybe six times in the past two weeks. I don’t drink, smoke, or do drugs of any kind, never have and never will. I spend a lot of time outside, especially in the winter, particularly when it snows. I really don’t want to live with this for the rest of my life…

    I’ve already guess that this is likely temporary but I still very much value the input of a trained medical professional and seeing as I currently don’t have health insurance I cannot see a doctor. I’m sure there are things that I’ve overlooked or forgotten, if you have any specific questions please ask.

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  27. sailaja

    Hi Dr.Greene,

    From past one month i am suffering from cold.At first it started like normal cold and then nasal congestion,breathing with mouth.For five days i took Levo citrizen and Doxt plus antibiotics and nasal drops.After that nose blocking is slightly reduced..but not able to fully come out of this..Still runny nose and blocking(one nostril each time )some times.

    Please suggest me some remedies.

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  28. SrilekhaBhushan

    hello doc, iam 18 yrs old for me face was swelling due to clod climate i have consulted near by doc she said that it is due to wisdom tooth but every day it is swelling and again becoming normal with some pain my face was looking very fluffy please give me some suggestion for this problem i cant see my face fluffy

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  29. Blue

    Hi doctor, i’ve noticed that whenever there is cold air, I start sneezing and usually end up with a runny nose. At other times, I just have a cough attack and my eyes get teary. This usually happens to me when there is cold breeze. Please tell me what I can do about this situation.

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    • Dear “Blue”,

      Thanks for writing in.

      Dr. Greene says, “Treatment of cold urticaria [allergy to the cold] involves avoiding the cold, when possible, and taking antihistamines. The antihistamines are best taken before exposure to cold temperatures to block some of the histamine release. Many of the over-the-counter antihistamines interfere with learning. I recommend a nonsedating drug, such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec).”

      There are 24 hour time-release versions of loratadine and cetirizine. These can be taken daily, if necessary, to keep the symptoms at bay.

      I hope that helps.
      Best, @MsGreene
      Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

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  30. Kranti Kumar

    Thanks for your valuable information.

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  31. Valerie

    4 years ago, I noticed that when I am exposed to cold or I am staying at a cold room I get itchy all of a sudden and plenty of white spots appears on the inside of my skin specifically on my legs and arms. It became a problem since I wear skirt everyday at school as my uniform and people eventually notice those white spots on my legs. I am very eager to know the solution with my problem. What should I do?

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    • Jamie

      I developed this issue a year ago, and I recently discovered that increasing my protein intake prevented a reaction. I still get cold, of course, but no itchy hives.
      Please note that I eat little meat but I increased my bean consumption. Hope this helps.

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      • Jamie,

        Great tip.

        Has anyone else tried this? Did it help you?

        I hope that helps.
        Best, @MsGreene
        Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

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  32. J.M.

    My son is a serious ( he wants to be Michael Phelps) competitive swimmer (9 years old) and loves his sport. He gets the traditional hives on cheeks, hands, or feet when playing outside in chilled air. He also occasionally gets hives during swim if the pool is chilly. After reading some articles; should we be more concerned about his condition. He practices 5 days a week for an hour and half in the pool. Most of the time he does not have any problems but unpredictably he will get a case of hives (stomach, back, chest) from time to time. Is this condition serious enough that we need to consider pulling him from a sport he loves? I should note that his pediatrician has never really worried about the condition but maybe because we were not overly concerned about it.

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    • Louise

      I have been warned to go swimming, as I will get cooled off getting out again. There is danger of anaphylactic chock, and I always have an injection-pen with Adrenalin with me. You should get test done at your doctor or specialist in allergi.

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    • erin griffin

      Curious to know how your son is now.. we have a 9 year old having the same problem.

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  33. varsha

    Hello sir,
    Iam VARSHA from India I have skin allergy but it especially occurs only in legs and hand when iam sitting inside the A/C Room or under the A/C or walked around the cold weather,while in rains and even using waters also my fingers are getting tight and I feel like freezing my finger and suddenly my legs and hands turns slight red and I got like wound on my hands and it’s give me itching and rashes feel after few minutes or hours only I got relief from that problem or I want to have some hot drinks or want sit under the fire this cause big problem in my daily life and was not able to keep my life happy and Iam not able to work in my daily life please doctor give me good solution for this problem.

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    • farid

      I am farid 38 years . working as perfusionist but recently diagnosed cold alergy. Having montelucast 10mg and using steroid spray. Now ok but if i stop this problem Will arise again. What should i do. Please give me advice.

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    • Rosal Bulaong

      Rosal

      I get itchy when the aircon is turned on. When I use a wet towel it goes away. I get dried mucus in my nose once in a while.
      Please help

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  34. Shivam Roy

    I have an allergy problem in my neck whenever am going for long riding with bike and if I my neck become cold that tyme only my neck will starting itching and cough and I can’t talk clearly also because my neck is paining that tyme so plz give me an solution

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  35. Jhaine

    Its not cold here in singapore but i always feel itchy and its swellen all over my body like hives. Sometimes even my face swellen because of the itchiness. Since i was a kid i always like this. What is it?

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    • Sheila Henry

      I have cold uticaria and any temperature 20 and below affects me and the first sign is my nose starts to run this, ,winter my home sits at 23 celsius.I get hives if exposed to cold air and short times outside to car or feed birds in yard has now caused a wheezy cough .I was a skier, a hiker an outdoorsy type and now cannot do it anymore.I get hives when I sweat in summer aswell.I had a nasty virus 2 years ago and that may have caused it.

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    • yusra mir

      I suffer from sever headach and blur vision due to cold weather.what can I do to prevent myself. .

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  36. William Hines

    Thanks for the tips Doc.. My wife has been very puzzled with what the cold does to her skin . I’m very glad for the info thanks again …

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  37. Ligia

    I have a friend suffering from cold urticaria. We live in Maryland, USA. Which gloves would be best for her? Thank you

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  38. Richard

    Hello Dr. Greene, I hope you can help me. I have an autoimmune condition called Sjogren’s Syndrome which caused me autonomic neuropathy and other autonomic problems like orthostatic Hypotension. I was give IVIG infusion last summer it. And after about 2 months in late November I started getting this extreme muscle weakness and fatgue, usually with a warming of my face and head. I am too weak to do anything besides lay in bed. This has been going on non-stop for 1 year now and no has figured it out yet. I am wondering if it was something in the blood from the infusions? Also the only things that help are Azithromycin, pedialyte and tylenol all together. Because AIthromycin is helping I feel like it has to be caused by a bacteria. And maybe that bacteria needs more than a week of azithromycin. It’s gotten so bad that even if my house goes lower than 74 degrees I will start to feel weak and feverish. Also sometimes my breathing hurts like a mild pneumonia (which I have had before so I know the feeling). Please help!

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    • Diana

      Have you been tested for lupus? They are the same symptoms.

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  39. manash saikia

    Sir I am manash
    respected sir my girlfriend (pragya) was badly suffering from eye allergy to cold …dust …wat to do its now become a daily problm …sneezing runing nose sore throats watering eyes are signs symptoms sir plz tell me the solution

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    • komal

      Sir my mother is suffering from cold ulticaria. If you know how she can get rid of it . Please tell me..

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  40. Jules

    Hello Dr. Green.
    I have a wheezing problem when it’s cold and doctors always diagnosed me as asthmatic. Recently, I started gaining weight, I am 150cm and are about 65kg now. I am not pregnant nor do I have any allergies. Yet, lately I kept getting rashes all over my body when it’s cold. And it itches so bad I get scratch marks all over. I don’t understand the problem, does my asthma cause me this itchiness allergic or this cold allergy give me asthma and this rashes? Kindly reply, thank you.

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  41. Preety rana

    Sir I am badly suffering from allergy to cold …dust …wat to do its now become a daily problm …sneezing runing nose sore throats watering eyes are signs symptoms sir plz tell me the solution

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    • Preety,

      I am so sorry. I know this is a miserable condition.

      Dr. Greene says, “Treatment of cold urticaria involves avoiding the cold, when possible, and taking antihistamines. Even though I do not recommend antihistamines for the common cold … antihistamines can be useful medications for some allergies, including cold urticaria. The antihistamines are best taken before exposure to cold temperatures to block some of the histamine release. When possible, I prefer non-sedating antihistamines for this purpose… For those with severe cold urticaria, like those with other severe allergies, an Epi-Pen or other emergency kit may be life-saving in the case of severe reactions.”

      Best,
      @MsGreene
      Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom
      Note: I answer a lot of questions on DrGreene.com, I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, Dr. Greene’s business partner, but I am a not doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

      Added:
      • ashesh kumar das

        Dear sir i am ashesh. My wife was suffering cold due to some alergic infection. She is 25 yrs old and her diseases is minimum last three years,. Anytime she was sneezing and her nose is blocked. Sir please give me a solution

        Added:
  42. adaline

    Hello! My mother is suffering from severe cold. She suffers alot during winter. she cant be in ac for long time. And she cant be in cold breeze for few seconds. So will antihistamines reduce that problem? And for how long can we use these. do they have any side affects? she dont have any rashes. Can anyone help me with this.!!

    Added:
  43. Adaline

    Hello! My mother is 48 yrs old and she is suffering from a severe cold. She cant withold ac and suffers alot in winter. She cant withstand cold breeze. Will antihistamines reduce that? Will there be any side affects? And how frequently can those be used. She also has spondilitis. Every year shez suffering alot. So can anyone suggest what to do.

    Added:
  44. curvel george

    Hello doctor…I am soo great full that I can actually find ane for this condition that I am suffering from..I have asaid that I am alergic to ice but truth is I am alergic to anything cold..a simple milk shake would swell my lips and numb them. Most likely my fingers would be swollen as well and itching from holding the glass..I get a bit of hives but only when it gets windy and chilly. .I am 27 years old and am a med student plese can you give me some info into this disease I have been searching. ..thank you

    Added:
    • Curvel,

      The medical name for this is Cold Urticaria.

      Best,
      @MsGreene
      Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom
      Note: Not Dr. Greene, not a doctor. Keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

      Added:
  45. Shreepal jain

    Hi, my son is 11 years old i have recently found that he is allergic to cold enviroment he immidietly get runny nose and down cannot play or do anything what should i fo

    Added:
    • Shreepal,

      How tough this must be.

      As Dr. Greene says, “Treatment of cold urticaria involves avoiding the cold, when possible, and taking antihistamines. The antihistamines are best taken before exposure to cold temperatures to block some of the histamine release. Many of the over-the-counter antihistamines interfere with learning. I recommend a nonsedating drug, such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec).”

      I wish I could suggest a permanent cure, but at this time, treatment of the symptoms is the only option.

      @MsGreene

      Added:
      • Shinwary

        Hello dear Dr.
        Whenever I take bath and meanwhile if a small amount of air rush in or out side of the bathroom by opening the door, meanwhile I am getting plenty of sneezing and a runny nose without cough and etc specially in winter.

        May I know the name of the disease?

        The availability of any type of vaccine for it?

        Duration of each dose if available?

        Can I get ride of it for life time cure?

        Thank you for your time and advise. :)

        Added:
      • Amanda

        I’ve had this for years. Forgot to take my anti histamine for a couple of days and I’m itching like mad. I take ceritizine all year round. I won’t forget it again. All my lips r blistering up.

        Added:
        • Amanda,

          This is a good reminder that staying ahead of this is key.

          Hope you get through these symptoms quickly.

          Best, @MsGreene
          Note: I answer a lot of questions on DrGreene.com, I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, Dr. Greene’s business partner, but I am a not doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

          Added:
        • Tom

          I am Tom from Kenya I have the same symptoms like yours Amanda it’s now a year and half but I have not figured what it is.

          Added:
  46. BM

    Until after reading this, i did not even know the name of my problem, cold urticaria. Thank you for this.

    Added:
    • bobbie bateman

      Thank you ive have thought i was the only one who had this problem. I have asthma my whole life and have been seen by doctors. Im in my 40 and finally moved from the cold to Az. But this is the first time i have found out anything about the cold and my hives. Thank you so much. I feel so much better knowing im not a freak lol . Bobbi jo PHX AZ

      Added:
  47. Mohit

    Hello doc..
    I am mohit and i am suffering from breathing shortness last 2 year my x-ray and lungs reports are normal..
    I took foracort (inhealer) daraphylin, montek LC, livotril
    But still faceing problem in breathing..
    What should i do.

    Added:
  48. Mohit

    Hello doc..
    I am mohit and i am suffering from last 2 year my x-ray report and lungs reports are normal..
    I took foracort (inhealer) daraphylin, montek LC, livotril
    But still problem in breathing..
    What should i do.

    Added:
  49. Swapnil

    Hi I’m swapnil im 37yrs old,im suffering from rain water,room temperature tap water,cool air my skin exposed to these start itching and gets red i had done several blood test but that’s normal reports. Sir pls let know what can treated best to live happily.

    Added:
  50. lynn

    hi my name is Lynn. I had been coming into contact with the cold since high school and I noticed the itch and rashes that appear on my feet and hands. I went to several hospitals got checked but they didn’t see anything wrong with me, but through my research I concluded that I am allergic to the cold. But I guess I figured it out a bit late because the tips of my toes and fingers have this constant dark color. I have tried to Google how to get rid of it but I haven’t found anything yet. could you please help me figure out something because I can’t wear open shoes and I can’t let anyone see my fingers. they always ask why I have ” black” fingers and I can’t start explaining how dangerously allergic I am to the cold. This has bothered me for long and I really can’t go on. It has greatly contributed to my insecurities. somebody please help me!

    Added:
    • As

      Please check the symptoms of Raynauds Phenomenon on WebMd and mention this to your doctor on your next visit. Sounds like you could possibly have these symptoms.

      Added:
  51. Dhana lakshmi Y

    Hello Doctor,
    I am Dhana, my problem is when I touch cold water,or breath fresh air ,my throat will be itching (when I am doing this) during the summer season,if the climate changes ,I will get cold frequently,not able to breathe, and my throat is itching,nose blocked.even the fan air is not compatible to my body what can I do,please give me a solution for this.

    Added:
    • Hello Dhana,

      Dr. Greene says, “Treatment of cold urticaria involves avoiding the cold, when possible, and taking antihistamines. The antihistamines are best taken before exposure to cold temperatures to block some of the histamine release. Many of the over-the-counter antihistamines interfere with learning. I recommend a non-sedating drug, such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec).”

      I know it can be tough to avoid cold, so you may need to routinely take antihistamines to prevent an allergic response.

      Best,
      @MsGreene

      Added:
  52. Ritesh

    hello Sir,
    I am Suffering With Chronic Utriac Allergy From 15-18 Years Ago.
    Now I Days I am using Anthihistmain Tablet From Long Time . Can Suggest Me That How Can I Stop Medicine and What Is Best Treatment That I Can Heal With Out Medicine. Or What Is Best Medicine To Heal this .

    Added:
    • Abdulla

      Put two slices of onion under ur feet and cover it by socks each night in flue seasons.I was happy with its result.I think than onion work as antihistamine and more effectively.

      Added:
    • yunus

      Hi i m yunus i m suffering from algeric cold . Nw i m taking leocitrizine tablet. Pls suggest proper solution

      Added:
      • Yunus,

        As Dr. Greene says, “The most important step in treating allergies is to identify what triggers them.” Are your symptoms from cold air, drinking cold water, the rain? What symptoms are you having?

        Best,
        @MsGreene
        Co-founder & Executive Producer DrGreene.com, Mom

        Added:
        • Than Kinis

          Hello Dr Greens,

          I am suffering from the cold for the past few years. Many doctors tried to find the cause but it was fruitless. Recently, I found out that whenever I consume anything cold (water, cold-drinks, soda, ice-cream), I immediately get nasal congestion, coughing which lasts for many weeks. Please help.

          Regards,
          Than Kinis

          Added:
  53. Jennifer

    Starting in February of this year I started with a chest pains and a cough, but I was not sick. I could push on the spot on my chest and it hurt. Then my blood pressure went very high 186/127 which of course landed me in the hospital. After all the tests they said I was fine but they said something was making my heart rate & blood pressure go up so they advised me to follow up with my doctor to look further.

    My blood pressure was high for about 2 weeks and finally my doctor put me on blood pressure pills which brought it down, but I was still very sick. I still had chest pains and coughing constantly, I also now had high blood pressure, dizzy, shortness of breath (couldn’t even walk to my front door without wheezing). I was constantly seeing my doctor and also started seeing a cardiologist. After multiple tests nothing, nothing was wrong they said, but they all said they can see that I am not feeling well.

    In may I started breaking out with a rash on my body. After about a week I found it was only when I was cold normally anything below 60 degrees or if it rained and I happened to get wet. However I found that if the sun was out and it was 60 I was fine.

    I went back to the doctor and showed him what was happening by pressing my arm against the cold window (40deg that morning) and within 5 min I had hives on that arm. The doctor said I am allergic to the cold. Again he said there is nothing they can do for it, I just have to be careful.

    I started feeling better over the summer, but I still have issues. We are going to be back in the cold months again, and I am nervous. I called the doctor to ask to be sent to an allergist so we will see what happens.

    My question is, can this all be linked to a cold allergy? None of the doctors were concerned but I was, I had an organ test, and also sleep apnea test. I have had stress test and cardiograms and various test on my heart and everything came back normal. I am not sure what to think, but my family can’t go thru it again this winter. No one seems to have answers. Let me know your thoughts and also if you think an allergist is the right direction.

    Added:
  54. nutholu

    Help doctor in having an itching sensation on my face after being exposed to cold weather so what do i do

    Added:
  55. sameer

    Hi doctor i am from Kashmir having age 24 whenever i touch cold water for nearly more than 10 minutes i often get my nose blocked what to do in order to protect this Please suggest

    Added:
  56. Habib ur rehman

    hi doctor i am habib ur rehman i am in real trouble specially in cold weather when my skin exposed to cold weather or water its going to dark red and feeling warm and when i enter from cold weather to room temperature i feel a lot of heat on my skin specifically face .kindly guide me a treatment for this

    Added:
  57. Dorean

    Good Morning

    I discovered my three year at the time had a severe reaction to swimming at the beach, sprinklers and pools. I have to give him Benadryl every time we enter any form of water minus baths because I can control the temperature. My son is also an asthmatic and that in itself is a struggle, but I just noticed that now that it is summer we have the AC on and he is sick….can this be related? Am I causing my son to be sick by having the AC on due to his allergy to cold water/air

    Added:
    • Dorean,

      People who have problems with cold water often have problems with cold air. If possible, try a trial with the air conditioner off to see if it makes a difference. I know this might be tough on the whole family, but it really could make a difference for you three year old.

      Hope that helps,
      @MsGreene

      Added:
  58. Benita

    Hello doctor, I’m 23 years old, I live in Africa. 3 years ago I discovered I couldn’t even drink water because I vomited virtually any thing that got into my stomach. I went to see a doctor and he gave me some de worming drugs and antibiotics, I took them and the vomiting subsided for a few a while, few months later, I started experiencing the same disorder so I visited another doctor and he told me I had to find out what triggered my vomit, I studied my self and I discovered I always vomit after taking chilled water or drinks, I took some drugs for vomiting and I have tried to avoid chilled drinks but it is not easy because I really love taking cold water or drinks especially on a Sunday day. Please doctor, I’ll be glad if you can look into my case and advice me on what to do. Thank you

    Added:
  59. Darla Samuelraju

    Hi Doctor ,

    My wife age is 38 years , she always suffering with allergic Cold , nose block , we are staying in Dubai – UAE.using Citrizine 25mg or allegra 120 mg but no relief .
    please let us know proper treatment

    Added:
  60. chris

    Anytime even when I forgot and take cool water and from refrigerator, I develop feverish as if the blood in my body system is not circulating, contractions and vibration down to my legs . I will then loose my sexual feeling, fatigue and loose interest in everything. Help m please Dr

    Added:
    • chris

      I am 50yrs, I am allergic t drinking cool water. Allergic to consume cool water

      Added:
  61. Benson

    Hi…Am Benson.Live in kenya.My eyes itch every time am exposed cold climAte….My nose block immedietey onthe same exposure.

    Added:
  62. NIKET DAVE

    SIR I GET RED RAISED BUMPS ON SKIN DEN IT APPERS AND DISAPPEARS WITHIN SECOND

    Added:
  63. Marlyce

    I am 45 yrs old never had allergies i work in a prep room that is 40 degrees at level and a 23 degree fan that blows to keep the room cold and the i have a freezer prep from that stays 30 degrees. I was diagnosed with bronchitis and was put on an inhaler. I broke out with a rash when i work in the prep room, but when i get warm it goes away. I am taken HB meds one is a beta blocker 2x a day 2 meds the same but one has htcz in it.
    Why did I breakout in a rash from the cold and it leaves soon as I leave the prep room?

    Added:
  64. Fridah

    I am 23years old. I live in Africa-Kenya. My skin itches when i feel cold. Every time and is even worse when i get rained on or touch cold water. I itch everywhere in my body apart from my face. My p***y too!!!! This has been going on for more than a year now, every doctor i see says its just an allergy and i should take piritons or citrizine to suppress it. Kindly assist.

    Added:
  65. James

    I get to have Itchy rushes when its cold, On my thighs, Arms, Legs, My Back and sometimes my p***s. Please help me with what can be done to prevent this.

    Added:
  66. Gabriela

    I have cold allergy, dust allergy, pollen allergy (thus also allergic asthma), cat allergy, my skin is irritated whether i am in water and my body feels hot or i am outside in the sun and i sweat,it is out of control, the medication i am given is useless, i am tired of using medication, nothing works, no medication that i was given prevented my allergy (Seretide or Claritin). I am used to looking like a monster, i don’t even know when i have a cold… the doctors around here seem ignorant and i am stuck with it all. There must be something that can keep my allergy under control, i want to have a baby and i want to be fully healthy to do it.

    Added:
  67. Daryl verbanic

    went to Dr yesterday was told I have probably a virus symptoms are nasal congestion ,tired stuffed nose head pressure in face and head ears seem to pop every now and then the pollen is real bad in Florida this year !! no fever sweaty and a bit clammy off and on lasted so far two plus weeks …read I can and has lasted 8 weeks or so ??one day I seem to feel better and then it seems to come c=back nothing real bad tired .. a bit weaker than normal ??? is there anything I can do I am going to get Zertec and vitamin c and easy symptoms like Airborne other than that had blood test day before went for visit I guess all was good on blood test ?/what do I do ?? thanks DV

    Added:
  68. Muhammad Ahsun

    Hello doctor,

    My wife(33) develops cold urticaria, whenever she is exposed to cold particularly cold water she develops these hives and these hives are burning and itching. Its now almost 3 months she developed this condition after some viral illness she is responding to antihistamines but we are feeling its increasing day by day, sometimes occurring only after sweating. We want to know what’s the prognosis of this condition particularly which develop after viral illness?
    I have learnt through internet that sometimes it can get worst in shape of anaphylaxis how can we avoid that? Can anaphylaxis occur only after small exposure, because sometimes she is alone at home, how can she manage it?

    Added:
  69. Emily

    Hi. First of all i would like to mention that not every cold ueticaria is allergy,yes it appears as a respons for cold or (in my case) at physical effort as running but it can appear in many autoimmune syndromes as a side effect. Just make an IgE test,if it’s above the normal limit it’s allergy because the IgE is an allergy marker, if it’s normal make an antinuclear antibody panel (ANA) if it’s pozitive is probalbly autoimmune and the urticaria is a side effect.It is also reccomended the TSH,FT4,antiperoxidaz test for your tireoid gland.All in all just visit a dermatologist,they will know what to investigate. Antihistamines help indifferently if it is an allergy or the side effect of an autoimmune disease. I’m also suffering from it so believe me I know what it feels to go outside knowing how you are going to look like but I’m also a med student and wanted to tell you that you have to investigate the cause. Sorry for the bad english but i hope i helped you.

    Added:
  70. MKF

    I began experiencing cold urticaria about two years ago while working in my yard on a chilly autumn day. I’ve since experienced it while shoveling snow in the winter and multiple times while working outside in cooler weather. The redness, hives, and the itching (especially) can be alarming, but I have found three things that quickly lead to resolution of the symptoms. 1) Taking a warm shower. 2) Taking quercetin, a natural substance found in apple skins and onions, but that can be purchased in tablet form from Amazon. I’ve experienced no side effects whatsoever with quercetin. 3) Taking liposomal vitamin C with or without the quercetin. Since it is in liposomal form, it works in about 5 minutes. I’ve experienced zero side effects and it can also be purchased at Amazon. These two things seem to reduce the histamine really quickly so I can get on with my work. I do not use any pharmaceutical medications ever, so these things have been very helpful.

    Added:
    • Great information. Thanks so much for sharing.

      If anyone else tries these remedies, we’d love to hear about your experience.

      BTW — How did you come upon quercetin and and liposomal vitamin C for cold urticaria?

      Best,
      @MsGreene

      Added:
  71. Mary

    I have an allergy to moving air and cold non-moving air which causes a burning sensation in my ears along with extreme tiredness. I have been physically very, very miserable almost every day for my entire adult life. Any advice you can give is much appreciated.

    Added:
  72. krishna prd khanal

    Dear doctor.

    Iam from nepal i am suffering from Cold allergy(when i touch cold water in winter season i have allergy in my hands and my whole body and it became red by allergy) what kind of teratement should be done to cure these kind of allergy . i am suffering from since two year

    Added:
  73. keishna prd khanal

    Dear doctor.

    Iam from nepal i am suffering from Cold allergy(when i touch cold water in winter season i have allergy in my hands and my whole body and it became red by allergy) what kind of teratement should be done to cure these kind of allergy . i am suffering from since two year

    Added:
  74. benard langat

    dear doc. am benard from kenya.i have cold allerg especially when i take a bath i severely scratch myself around my tight and stomach for 30 mins.the same happens when i come in contact with vibrating body.pliz help me

    Added:
    • Owot Margaret

      Hello doc, I am Margaret,54, from Uganda. I get severe itching all over my body after bathing, during chilly cold and when it is about to rain . I am even allergic to my sweat and urine. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes and scratching cannot relieve. It is so embarrassing! I need help, please.

      Added:
      • Margaret,

        Dr. Greene says, “Treatment of cold urticaria involves avoiding the cold, when possible, and taking antihistamines. The antihistamines are best taken before exposure to cold temperatures to block some of the histamine release…I recommend a non-sedating drug, such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec).”

        If you can not avoid cold, such as bathing, taking an antihistamine before you bathe could be helpful. Some antihistamines can be tolerated on an ongoing basis. Do you have access to a pharmacy? If so, ask for the generic brands of loratadine or cetirizine. They are both well tolerated and can be taken round the clock for relief of symptoms.

        Best,
        @MsGreene

        Added:
  75. Sumer Rao

    Dear Sir

    i am suffering from cold from 14-15 years , we have take several treatment but not cure cold , now a days i am suffering from ashtma

    pl help me ,what can i do
    Sorry for my bad English.
    With regards..Sumer

    Added:
  76. virgilio

    hello doc, i’ m virgilio,filipino,but now working on KSA,in one of the pipeline company,we are only 2 weeks staying here,and i experience very itchy on my one thigh,after 3 days my thigh inflammed and i feel little bit hard on it,the doctor said that it was an allergy prescribed anti inflammator meds,antibiotic ang anti rheumatic ointment,how can you tell my condition doc and how can i treat it? thank you very much,

    Added:
  77. Barkev Mghshian

    Hello Dear Doctor,

    My name is Barkev, from Syria and now living in Sweden.
    When I get little bit of wind in summer or winter days, especially from my ears I feel pressure and pain in my head.
    I don’t want to speak even, just getting nervous and little bit dizzy.
    I have to wear always a hat and close my ears, neck and throat to feel better.
    Drinking hot things helps me.
    Please can you diagnose my problem,and give me a solution.
    I have been suffering from this for about 6-7 years.
    I am so tired.

    Added:
    • krishna prd khanal

      yes iam also these kind of problem .iam from nepal if you have get solution plz said me

      Added:
  78. Hamza

    I’m having all the time runny nose and unable to breathe through my nose fully.. so I have to kept my nose open during day time and during sleep. On washing my face with cold water sneezing start for an indefinite time. What should I do? Doctors call it sinusitis, but still unable to recover from it. What should i do?

    Added:
  79. Nagappak

    Add your message here. sir iam nagappa k living in India.hosur in the state of Tamil nadu.from the last twelve years I have been facing the skin alergy.before coming the alergy running nose come that full night there is itching in my palm.there is no sleep that night.i consult dermatologist and many docters and also st john’s hospital also
    there is no use.pls give me permanent solution to this sir.I hope u will give best suggestion to me thank u sir.

    Added:
  80. Tess

    Dear Doc.,
    I am a filipina lives in the philippines since birth up to 23 yrs old. In 1998 i came to hongkong for work and the first time to experience winter i got red rashes on my left foot and the sole became purple when i wet it.The redness dissappear during sunny and hot weather but the skin became numb. Years passed and i noticed red patches on other parts my bum and knees and belly.so i went to dermatologist had biopsy anddiagnosed to have “small plaque parapsoriasis”.last 2012 my foot became numb so i went to neurogist and diagnosed with peripheral neurophaty but they did not find out what causes the neuropathy.so i went back to the phils.and stayed there for 2 and a half years and i noticed that i have no more these skin redness but the numbness on the areas where the redness was still there.2015 last august i was back in hongkong and when the weather changed cold my redness flares up now it’s worse because it involves my hands both feet and my nose and left face.the redness are like raised skin and lumpy and swelling.my hands turned purple red when i touched the cold. I am now undergoing the same tests as before and i am waiting the results.i do not take any medication since no known disease.i read many different disease symptoms.this time the doctor suspected i might have leprosy or syphilis.the question is why it breaks out only on cold weather and if i have these leprosy or syphilis it should have already found out on my first med tests when the sypmtoms occured. Now that i know there is cold related diseases i might have one too.thanks for the info.

    Added:
  81. Crystal

    Just found this site. I have been suffering from this for about 3 years now, and it has only gotten worse. Daily allergy pills, quick doses of Benadryl, lotions, creams and ointments did noting to help. The only thing is taking prednisone when the flare ups occur.
    I’m glad I found this though, as I though that the reason I wheezed and had a runny nose after running in cold weather was because I was out of shape.

    Added:
  82. Staci

    I suffer from cold uticaria and tested positive for hashimotos disease. I wonder if the two are connected?

    Added:
    • sigita freire

      hello i also suffering from allergy , my hands so itchy that i don’t know what to do ? also i have graves deseas ,i am 41 and i live in ny . can you please advice me what to do , or what medicine i can take ?

      Added:
    • jb

      I believe so. Hashimotos is an autoimmune thyroid disease that leads to low thyroid. It can leave patients with cold sensitivity and fatigue. Fortunately, there are tests and thyroid medications which can help the thyroid hormones stabilize. The auto immune system is also over working in cold allergies. However, even after the thyroid levels are corrected, many patients are dogged by cold allergies in all of it forms.

      Added:
  83. Marwan

    Hello,

    I am Lebanese. I am 27 years old. I live and work in Congo Africa since 2011. One day in my vacation in 2013 I was in Turkey swimming in the Black Sea. After 20 minutes of swimming, I realized that my body became red. I thought maybe its the salty water. Maybe it’s the sun. I didn’t take it in a serious way even though I felt a bit tired.

    After some days I went back to Lebanon. I swam at night in a swimming pool (non salty) — same red hives appear. So since that time, whenever I make effort and I sweat, whenever I swim, when ever I am in the car and the A.C. is on, my body become red, but 10 minutes after I go to a warmer area everything is normal again, as if nothing happened.

    I had blood tests to see if I have an allergy against food or something. Everything seems normal. After I read on the web, I understand a bit about my situation. But the question is how to get rid of this allergy?

    Till now I didn’t try any medicine. I don’t want to take anything that wouldn’t help. I need something that will end this situation. and as I live in Africa… Here they dont have advanced hospitals or labs where I can do blood test or something. And as I work a lot, I don’t have much time to travel for months to do tests. Every time I go to swim I feel shy because people will be staring and you have to explain for them something you don’t understand well.

    Please anyone know anyway to get rid of it? Or share some info with me. Thank you very much and I wish for everyone to get rid of this allergy.

    Added:
    • Krystal

      I have a similar conditon and saw 2 different allergist its called cold urticaria which basically means your allergic to the cold! You can do a simple at home test where u put an ice cube on ur arm for 5 min if hive appears than you know its cold urticaria. When i take allegra just one pill i dont get the hives and break out! Also zyretc works great too but clartin didnt work for me. Hope this helps

      Added:
  84. bryan

    This is the best information I’ve received about this topic. I recently acquired a cold allergy after battling bronchitis; extremely uncomfortable. I just hope these symptoms go away. I notice that the older I get the more repercussions I have from recovering and fighting sickness…

    Added:
  85. Kira

    Hello Doc,
    I have had an allergy to the cold since I was about 8 years old. I am now 30 years old and unfortunately it seems my alergy has only become worse. The way I have noticed is that in the past it use to take maybe 30 minutes for my reaction to start/appear (hives, or complete body inflammation and swelling), now to date it takes about 5-10 minutes to be in the wet cold or simply coldness touching my skin to develop a rash. I’m concerned I this allergy may be fatal. I’ve never tested it out of course, and to date my only reaction has been on my skin. How do I find out if in a particular situation gone bad (like being stuck in the snow, stranded for hours and hours) would I die? I should prob just talk to my doctor but…they prob never even heard of this. Everything I have read says if gets better with age and excersize but mine is only getting worse…what to do.
    Sincerely,
    Kira.

    Added:
    • Abhishek

      Hi Kira,
      I have been encountering this from my childhood as same like you. even I am looking for any remedy for this cold allergy. I can’t even enjoy snowy climate.

      Added:
      • Poonam

        I am the same. I believe I’m allergic to cold since childhood. I took homeopathy when I was in high school and it went away, or at least I thought I got rid of it. Not really. I’m 27 now. Recently I got some allergic reaction to something and had red rashes (not hives) all over my body but face. Those were not hives. I struggled for 1.5 months and it started going away. During that time, I drank some cold orange juice and saw hives on my face. Allegra helped me a lot. Later, when I was back to normal, I went out of the city (I live in SoCal) for vacation…it’s a cold place. As soon as we went in the snow, I started getting hives on my face again. It went away as soon as I got away from the snow. Now, almost 3 weeks after the vacation, here I am, in my apartment, the table fan is on, and I got a hive on my face. I think it’s only getting worse. I haven’t had any kind of juice since then…

        Added:
  86. preethi

    hello sir
    i am preethi,i do not know what is this on the my nose …my nose becomes red in all season including very low in breathing condition. how many doctors consult not enough sir. hello sir allergy test in IgE level increase what can problems sir. plz clear answer in my problem . what can i do stop this? prevent any drug using plz reply sir.

    Added:
  87. Gerlee

    I have been suffering from cold urticaria from a very young age. Allergy was worse when I was younger. Now I am 27 years old, and when I was about twelve years old, Chinese doctor gave me some Chinese medicines for my urticaria. I would say my allergy gone down by almost 99%. Urticaria starts to appear on my skin only if I catch cold or when I am having a high fewer. I rarely get few itchy spots only in certain areas such as skin around the eyes, nose and the belly since I took that Chinese medicine. I am not from China, so I am not sure about the medicine name and its description. However, if you ask urticaria medicines from Chinese doctors, I am sure they would give you the same medicines that I took. It was very effective for me.

    Added:
    • Abhishek

      Hello Gerlee,
      Can you suggest me the chinese medicines that you took to overcome the cold utricaria.
      It would be very help full if you provide the name of that medicines.

      Thank you,
      Abhi.

      Added:
  88. suriyamir

    hello sir
    i am suriya,i do not know what is this on the my nose …my nose becomes red in winter season however this is not happens in the summer.
    i am tired of this i told about my problem to manay doctors but its doesn’t work..
    what can i do please tell my how i can get rid of my red nose? my nose become red in winter at night time. please give me some suggestion.

    Added:
    • denise

      I have this and have found great relief from taking gabapentin. It took about 8 weeks to finally kick in and I am so happy. Ask your doctor. It treats the nerves. It is the nerve endings attacking when exposed to cold.

      Added:
  89. Lotte Johansen

    Im from Denmark. I had an opereration in my knee in 2008. The pills I was given for pain, sent me right back to the hospital the same night. The product is called Todolac, and I was allergic to it. with in 20 minutes after taking the first pill I had hives all over my body and I was itching like crazy. I was given a lot of antihistamines to fight the allergic reaction. Since that day I have suffered from cold urticaria. Can that drug be the issue here??? Did it trick something in my body maybe?

    Added:
    • judith

      Dear doc,my boy 4yrs,starts by itching,then develops hives on da body,sometimes the face swells,also the mouth and da feet swell,and he finds it difficult to walk,I have given him cetrine for 2yrs now with no change.

      Added:
  90. Ramesh kulal N

    I have been suffering from cold since 6 months. Alopathy and ayurveda medicine I had tried. But not control. I have continuously taken okaset(cipla) tablet for control. But not get permanent solution. Sneezing and water content from nose and eye. Please save me doctor.

    Added:
  91. yazminpb

    Hello Doctor!

    I have been suffering from cold since 4 years. When I get cold I get constant sneezing, running nose, watery eyes and I cannot put my head downwards. I feel heaviness and pain in my nose. My doctor had prescribed some spray as well as medicine for three months, but now I have been taking these medicine more that a year. I take that medicine only at night. And the day I don’t take medicine next day I suffer heavy cold. My X-rays report shows everything fine. What shall I do?

    Added:
    • A Kumar

      Hello Doctor!

      I have been suffering from cold since 4 years. When I get cold I get constant sneezing, running nose(in every season)watery eyes and I cannot put my head downwards. I feel heaviness and pain in my nose. My doctor had prescribed some spray as well as medicine for three months, but now I have been taking these medicine more that a year. I take that medicine only at night. And the day I don’t take medicine next day I suffer heavy cold. My X-rays report shows everything fine. What shall I do?plese help me

      Added:
      • Some nasal sprays, such as Afrin, are not meant for long-term use. When used longer than prescribed, they can have an adverse effect and actually be the cause of congestion. Have you discussed this possibility with your doctor?

        Added:
  92. Heather

    Dr. Greene,
    I’ve had cold urticaria since 2010. I get hives on legs when outside..even in chillier summer night air. I have gotten it on arms & hands too. My face, neck, & ears get scarlet red but burn more than itch.though they do itch some too. Hands..even in the cold section at grocery store. In winter or even A/C in summer I have coughing fits from cool air..particularly laying down. I only get relief by putting covers over my mouth/nose or wear a ear loop mask (like a surgeon) to breathe in warm air. Is this from cold allergy as well? I need to know. I mention my cold allergy to docs & get disbelieving reactions to outright denial that its a real thing.

    Added:
  93. David

    Hello Doctor,

    When the weather is under 40 degree F and while I am outside, I get sick. It take only 10 seconds to get me sick when the temperature under 40. My sickness is very weird, My back is numb and feeling nothing and it make me sleep all the time. No need for eating, drinking, or anything. If I cover my nose, I will not get sick. Lately, I found out if I take cold allergy, the sickness will recovery very quick. Please give me some advise. I am tired of the cold weather.

    Best Regards,
    David

    Added:
  94. Shahzad Khan

    Sir i am suffering from
    Winter Allergy for at least 9 years when i was 15 and now i am over 24.
    Sneezing, watery eyes,Dark circles under the eyes,Runny nose and difficulties to breath through nose aren’t just for the spring season but also in summer when it rains and the remaining day become cold.
    i will be waiting for your reply and for your suggestion about my allergy cure.

    Added:
    • jack arada

      I know that, i was on the same condition too, dark circle under the eyes shows that our liver is heavy work, when the liver is not good, we easier to get allergies, all the watery nose and etc is the effect from the liver, what was wrong with me which is cause my liver gone bad was 1. eat spicy, 2.Less sleep or too late sleep 3. Eating meat and fried food

      When u can cut all the things above u’ll be fine. . .

      Added:
      • Anoop India

        Hello Doctor!

        When i get cold air or temprature below 15 i get hive on the body part affected by the air and feel so much scraching there pls suggest the problem and solution also

        Thank You Doctor….

        Added:
    • Ishwor bk

      Sir i am suffering from
      Winter Allergy for at least 9 years when i was 15 and now i am over 24.
      Sneezing, watery eyes,Dark circles under the eyes,Runny nose and difficulties to breath through nose aren’t just for the spring season but also in summer when it rains and the remaining day become cold.
      i will be waiting for your reply and for your suggestion about my allergy cure.

      Added:
      • Avanish

        Sir i am suffering from
        Winter Allergy for at least 9 years when i was 15 and now i am over 24.
        Sneezing, watery eyes,Dark circles under the eyes,Runny nose and difficulties to breath through nose aren’t just for the spring season but also in summer when it rains and the remaining day become cold.
        i will be waiting for your reply and for your suggestion about my allergy cure.

        Added:
        • Avanish,

          Have you seen an Allergist? It sounds like you may not be allergic to cold temperature, but something in the air.

          @MsGreene

          Added:
  95. Suman Thapa

    I’ve been having nasal allergy for over a year now.First it was ok but now my condition has worsened.Now i have pain in my upper nasal region and my nose hurts when i bow down.I went to the doctor and he said that i may need surgery … i don’t want that .so please tell me ways from which i can cure this using general treatment.

    Added:
  96. Lyn

    Can cold allergy suddenly appear at age 51 ? I noticed the first time I put my hand under cold water ( water wasn’t extremely cold) , my hand would get really itchy, red and warm. The itch can’t be calmed by scratching. It’s like it’s too wayyyy deep inside to be reached.Anotger time, my entire legs would be the same way when I go into the water at the beach. My kids would say the water is freezing, but I just felt that it’s refreshingly cold. This is around May in CA.
    Soon the hands-first-thing-in-the-morning-redness goes away. Then your article mentioned hives and I noticed that I have been getting that the last few weeks. My husband said it was dry skin but they weren’t fry nor flaky. The itch is deep inside like the previous. This time, I didn’t come in contact with the cold at all..but itch high in back of my thighs and behind my knees. The hives are noticiable after I scratched. Not exactly the same symptoms like touching the cold water. So maybe this is not a symptom of cold allergy ?

    I did just come out of a cold swim and my thighs are very warm, but no redness, no hives..so maybe my “cold allergy” has gone..?

    Added:
  97. Aridy

    I have a reaction to the cold like that but I get all over my body and even when its only a little cold I get it and I really don’t think I have that cold thing

    Added:
    • What do you think you have?

      Added:
      • subuanolah

        Whenever I put my hand in cold things or during cold weather my hand or feet always itch me at times I always put my hands or feet in warm things to stop that

        Added:
  98. Nirupama Sharma

    I was 19 when I got Hives on my foot… After same weeks i got hives on my whole body…. Now I’m 24 and used to it….. I just want to ask that do my children will get the same problem as I got…

    Added:
  99. Tara

    I have had this since I was around 10 years old and have had many episodes over the years and doctors never really diagnosing me or treating me for it. I went swimming in the sea in Wales sea too cold developed hives on skin like blisters. I then blacked out and was sick. Had many more incidents over the years mainly when swimming in pools or sea that is cold. Also if I eat ice lollies my lips sometimes swell. When it is cold wet and rainy my skin feels like it is on fire even though I am freezing and is very itchy. I get hives.

    I have learned to live with it over the years, I’ve just got to wrap up and take extra care when swimming. I am 45 this year and have GPA autoimmune disease which was diagnosed last year, upper respiratory ENT limited. My mum told me that my grandmother used to get the same sort of hives and reaction but she still managed to swim the English Channel!

    Added:
  100. Mel

    Thanks for the post. The first time I noticed an allergy to the cold was when I went to a football game outside in 40 deg raining weather in the fall of 2013. I was itching all over my legs and was extremely uncomfortable. The second time I had an episode was the summer of 2014, I was floating the Guadeloupe River and every part of my body that was touching the cold spring fed water broke out into hives. I am still trying to find out the reason why I have this allergy and doing blood work to make sure it’s not a symptom of something else. I live in the south so I am fortunate to not have to deal with snow or extreme cold temperatures. However when I put on the cold air to cool off from the Texas heat I end up breaking out on my arm or ears or which ever part of my body the cool air is touching.

    Added:
    • Aridy

      Me too

      Added:
  101. Sonal malpani

    I am sonal malpani. I live in Mumbai.I am 35 year old.I am suffering from very severe cold allergy in which I am unable to breathe.I feel extremely restless and also at that time because of cold severe headache starts.in every 2-3 days cold allergy starts and it continues to 2-3days.kindly suggest me what should I do.

    Added:
  102. Hari

    Thanks Dr. Greene for your post.

    I have skin irritation even just below normal room temperature, please see if you can help me to understand better and find a solution to the same.

    Brief back ground: I restored my health to a very great degree from fibromyalgia by following alternate methods after 15 years. Still I suffer from CFS, but little. So I plan my work and travel carefully. The fibromyalgia symptoms started to worsen when I was living in cold weather in NY between 1998 and 2001. Currently I am 42 years, and living in India in a tropical weather condition.

    The techniques I followed are: 1. Dietary supplements, change in diet and restorative yoga.

    In every aspect I designed a specialized routine that suits me over a period of time through self-study and discovery.

    Current condition: Part of muscles surrounding calf still needs to recover and when I walk or do exercise I feel lot of pain and takes two to three days to recover and I feel very uncomfortable, reducing my productivity. Also feel continues fatigue after the exercise. So I stopped yoga two years ago and I am doing lot better and may start yoga any time.

    Skin irritation issue: Even just below room temperature, when I turn on fan or air conditioner leg muscles start feel stiff and muscles feel pain. That is one part. Other part is skin that exposes to continuous air flow, feel burning sensation and disturbs my productivity and sleep.

    Once I go into normal temperature or slightly above room temperature, in 30 minutes I become normal. In winter I take about 2 hours with warm clothing.

    It took me several years to understand that during winter I cover myself with two or three blankets, and wear thermal wear and sweat wear, plus have gloves and monkey cap for a comfortable sleep.

    Ironically, in summer when I turn on Air Conditioner to cool the room, even at 80 F, I had to cover myself with rug and cover my years for comfortable sleep.

    The progress I had so far: When I continuously take high protein and premium multivitamins, I start to feel good, muscles pains go away and feel active most of the day with harmonious energy levels. Due to financial instability, once I stop the expensive imported supplements, again in two to three weeks fibromyalgia symptoms start to appear, and CFS becomes intense.

    Currently I also have to sleep two hours during day (after 8 to 10 hours of sleep during night) to be productive during the day. This is much better than 14 to 16 hours of sleep few years ago.

    Also recently I started to gain grip on my ontology and training myself to be more healthy, fun and loving and I see progress with that technique, still some other support might accelerate my progress.

    I appreciate if you can help to understand the condition better and find an effective solution.

    Weather conditions in the area I live:

    Winter temperatures: Avg low 60 F, avg high 84 F

    Summer: Avg low 75 F avg high 100 F

    Added:
    • Yogesh kumar mishra

      Sir , I have the same problem of itchy skin and then after redness in whole body when exposed to cold air or water ( usually happens in winter season) its really uncomfortable please suggest me what can I do ,?? Please sir it is hurting me alot , its been 3 years I am suffering from this . currently I am 21 years old .

      Added:
  103. Rhea Norwena Factor

    Thank you so much for the information about cold allergy i’ve been suffering from this for almost 2years and i take antihistamines just to lessen my burdens. And with this whole thing i learned a lot about my condition and it is so beneficial for my case because i have read a complete data about my recent state. More powers!

    Added:
    • You are very welcome, Rhea. All the best to you! Many people have still not heard of cold allergies – but hopefully we’re spreading the word to help reduce the burden for people who have this.

      Added:
  104. Maurice

    thank you for the knowledge

    Added:
  105. Sharon

    Hi. I came from Malaysia where the weather there is hot and humid. Recently i’ve moved to UK during winter. Due to the changed of weather, my skin tends to have breakouts whenever I go different places around UK during winter. What should i do?

    Added:
  106. Abdulrahman

    Hello, I don’t know how to describe my problem but I’ve been suffering from allergy in winter for many years since I were around 16 years old, whenever I go out I get that itchy feeling throughout my chest and my back, when I was younger I used to get those itchy hives on my arms but now I no longer see them at all.
    Also even if I’m in a warm room and the temperature is warm not cold and if I got over reacted for example do some psychical exercises or got angry I get that itchy feeling.
    In Summer it’s very rare to get that, unless it get chilly cold It might happen again, I didn’t see any doctor and I don’t take any medic, does this means that I’m suffering from this Cold urticaria?

    Added:
    • Naif

      Hello Abdulrahman
      Did you have any reply from dr Greene? I have the same problem as you. It always happens in Winter season.

      Added:
  107. Dheeraj

    Hi i am 25 years old. I am suffering from allergic cold only in summers when sitting under a.c. and in winters everything is right. What is the treatment for this?

    Added:
  108. ifeyinwa stephen

    My son is 1 now and he is always getting this stuffy nose anytime it is cold or cold breeze. I took him to see an ENT and I was told he has adenoid enlargement. He gave us some drugs which gave him a relief, but the situation came back after awhile. I went back and was given another prescription of loritadine and nasal drop. The nasal drop worsens my boys case, but when the weather became hot, he got relieve. Now the weather is cold and he has a stuffy nose again. Do I repeat the drug again?

    Added:
  109. R White

    When I was a child, I would vomit when cold. My mother’s cousin was my doctor, and I thought he was crazy when he said I was allergic to cold. My son has cold urticaria. Now I realize my vomiting was because my constant fatigue was bradycardia caused by childhood rheumatic fever. My pacemaker keeps things going now, and it only took two cardiac arrests to get anyone to take my fatigue and memory loss seriously. I lost my career because of the brain damage. Buy a clue–women CAN have heart problems without high blood pressure or cholesterol.

    Added:
    • Wow, what a journey. I’ve very sorry for all you’ve gone through, but glad that you’re out there now warning others!

      Added:
  110. md abdul matin

    I am now 53 years old. in December 1983 first I noticed my throat was making too much thick mucus. then I was in Bangladesh. I was feeling very uncomfortable. since than I saw many ENT specialist. at last according to their advice my tonsil was removed in 1987. after remove the tonsil my mucus in throat condition got more worse. in 1989 I came to uk. I told ENT specialist my situation in luton hospital, uk. doctor check up my throat. he did not find anything wrong. at last in 2000 I went to Bangladesh again. I saw an ENT specialist. the doctor told me I got allergy to cold and dust. he prescribe me allergy tablet. after one month I came to uk and I saw my GP he gave me cetirizine. after took cetirizine 3 years I was fully cured. then I stopped taking cetirizine. after few months I got same problem again. doctor prescribe me cetirizine again. but this time cetirizine did not work. then my GP prescribe me montilukast 10 mg tablet. after taking montilukast I was cured again. but about few years before started another problem, that is I feel cold physically and every year getting worse. specially my feet is too much cold and feeling cold straight way affect my throat and make mucus in the throat. but used the extra cloths and I use extra heater in the room. I do not go out when weather is windy and cold. it was in my control. but last year in January for asthma I was taking inhaler. after taking inhaler I got so many problem like too much mucus in throat, body shaking, hungry, weakness, short breathing, feeling too much cold physically and when I go to bed and cover body with quilt feeling hot etc. nearly 10 months I discussed with my GP. but he did not find any reason. at last I fond the reason after read the inhaler leaflet. it was inhaler side affect. I stopped to take inhaler. many problem gone but making mucus in the throat exist. now I am taking montilukast and cetirizine both but still I am getting same problem. feeling cold physically, it is out of control and because of cold I am getting too much thick mucus in the throat. now it is very difficult for me to maintain my daily life. for cold I had blood test but it is normal. sorry for my weak English.

    Added:
    • raman somani

      how he got relief

      Added:
  111. swathi

    Is there any perminent solution?

    Added:
  112. Chelsea

    My husband has been breaking out in this red, blotchy rash off and on in the mornings for the past couple of months. He gets dizzy, and then his face, neck, arms, and hands break out in an itchy/burning rash. It usually comes on quick and then goes away within 45minutes to an hour. I have thought of everything and can’t seem to figure out what it is.
    Any ideas?

    Added:
  113. kshetrimayum Gitanjali devi

    I am very much helped by your guidelines.

    Added:
  114. Emmanuel Chimusolo

    On 27 Feb 2015, I came home after work, sat in the living room to watch TV as usual and around 6-7pm felt something bite me just on my lower back like a mosquito. Since I was leaning forward because of the laptop on my table, my lower back was exposed so I figured it was a mosquito, got insecticide, sprayed the room and closed the windows. To my surprise, this itchy feeling started spreading all over my body and whenever I scratched, bumps started developing on my skin and fast. It itched the whole night and when I woke in the morning I took a cold shower and for a moment they disappeared, a couple of minutes the itching started and oh boy … my arms, inner thighs, my back, facial skin around the nose and back of my ears, my lower belly..it was an eruption and the more I scratched, the more it came out. For the last 3 years I have probably take less than 15 warm baths and its usually in hotels when I visit cold countries. I love cold showers and in summer I even take 4 in a day (morning, just after lunch on a working day, immediately after work and if go to bed past midnight, last shower) because I hate the heat and the discomfort it brings.

    Imagine my surprise when I Googled this and found that the allergy I have is called cold urticaria caused by cold weather and cold stuff. I find it hard to believe even though all the symptoms mentioned here are all happening to me. For example, I wore shoes and socks the whole afternoon yesterday so I thought..no problem feet are covered up but then sweat came and my feet started itching when in socks and shoes. The crack below my lower back is also a problem area when its warm and this area is worse because of the delicate skin which easily breaks when I scratch (talk about pain in the ass…lol). I haven’t even seen a doctor yet because I am in shock. Its even harder to explain to my African folks what this is. My wife is a nurse and I noticed the scratching with her a couple of months ago and I didn’t believe her when she said its caused my coldness and I would usually stop her from scratching her self the way she did. Today is the second day and if it doesn’t stop I will see a dermatologist in 2 days time. Till then it’s happy scratching. :)

    Added:
    • Emmanuel Chimusolo

      This morning am looking at my skin and it’s smooth like nothing happened to it a couple of hours ago. Just wondering where the hell those things are hiding???

      Added:
  115. Sandra patnode

    In December I came down with the typical runny nose. By Januar my asthma was bothering me. Was put on two courses of antibiotics and prednisone. Diagnosed with bronchitis. Using two inhalers and a nebulizer. Sxs still not clear but taking another course of prednisone and an allergy pill. I suggested to my primary about seeing a pulmonary DR because I figure they would know better how to help me. He said I was not bad enough. This has been 9 weeks now and it has put a damper on my skiing and gym time. What are your thoughts about seeing a specialist? Thanks for your time :) Sandi

    Added:
  116. Anita

    I have gotten a painful rash for most of my adult life after being out in the cold. A couple of years ago, I went to an allergist who was unable to reproduce it by putting an ice cube on my arm. The place where he tested has never broken out before – I told him this. I felt like he didn’t believe me, or just didn’t want to test the area where I’ve actually had hives before. I usually get the hives on my inner thigh, inner knee, back of knee, crook of elbow, upper belly (under breasts). Sweaty areas more prone?

    I’ve recently learned of “Reflex Cold Urticaria” where ” generalized cooling of the body induces…wealing”. I haven’t really noticed if touching cold things or eating/drinking cold foods bring on symptoms. I do get nasal congestion in the cold – thought that everybody had that. Sometimes an icy drink makes me cough, but I just thought it “went down wrong”.

    I have read accounts that sound much worse than any of my experiences with it, so I have just counted myself as lucky and tried to live with the annoyance.

    Added:
  117. stephen

    I have been suffering with cold urticaria since 2005. Every winter has been a constant torture of leg arm and back scratching, with creams and potions doing very little help.Then to be hit by another attack of endless scratching just longing for the warm summer days for some rest from this curse. But not anymore i think i might of stumbled upon an end to this misery known as Cold Urticaria! The last few weeks have been bliss. No sign of an outbreak.

    I have recently stumbled upon Olive Leaf Extract. If this stuff is every thing it claims to be then WOW! Search it out on the web. There are more than enough sites praising the benefits to keep you occupied for days. In fact try finding a site that doesn’t praise its benefits — that would be a challenge. It seems to be working for me.

    Please remember to consult your doctor or physician before trying any new medication.

    Added:
    • Thanks for this great info. I would love to hear other people’s experiences and opinions about Olive Leaf Extract. Has anyone else here tried it? Did it work for you? Are there any side effects?

      Best, @MsGreene
      Note: I am the co-founder of DrGreene.com, but I am not Dr. Greene and I am not a doctor. Please keep that in mind when reading my comments and replies.

      Added:
  118. jane

    My granddaughter at two years and three months was diagnosed with cold uticaria. She was in the snow at one year old and had no problem. Then she had eye surgery, being cross eyed, and after that we feel she developed uticaria. So worried about her. Is it ok for us to give her vitamin C with quercitin? What else can grandma do?

    Added:
    • Kate

      My 10 year old daughter has just been diagnosed with this condition, we realised cold was a problem for her as any exposed skin would break out in hives. She’s only had it for about 6 weeks but as I live in England and it’s the winter (just turning into spring) I haven’t experienced the worst weather yet, just the tail end so have no idea how bad she may get. Although it seems that this condition is changeable anyway!
      We are off to Florida soon and reading the comments of some people here I am worried about how she will be in the pools and waterparks. Her school swims in the summer in their outdoor pool and I can see that as our summers here are not particularly hot she is likely to have to be excluded from this now and I feel so sorry for her.
      As I do not want to pump her full of antihistamines if I can avoid it has anyone had success with any natural supplements?

      Added:
  119. Elyn

    Hi, I have this cold allergy, and every after 3 days, my skin gets itchy like I was pierced by hundreds of needles. So I have to take CITIRIZEN each time it attacks. It started when I was 19 yrs old, and I really can’t concentrate on my studies, hobbies, etc. every time it itches. Is their any possible solution to get rid of it besides taking tablets? Is this really a lifetime allergy? Please help me and share your advice. Thank you and God bless.

    Added:
    • timo

      Hi. Sorry if my english is not clear enough.
      I have a couple of tips for you:

      1.
      You should keep your room temperature
      comfortable for you and use all sorts of
      air blowing machines to keep streams
      in your room steady.

      2.
      You should take vitamin c crystals (powder)..

      3.
      You shoud take aged garlic extract..

      Added:
    • Susan

      Telfast (Fexofenadine Hydrochloride) is better than citirizen 180mg each tablet and if it’s really bad like mines you can take up to 6 to 8 tablets a day but that is in extreme cases where you can’t even wash you hands in the house.

      Added:
  120. gina

    Hi my 6 year old son seems to be getting rashes after coming in from the cold weather. It starts off bright red and then he develops chickenpox like bumps on area that was exposed.
    I was wondering if anyone can explain what a cold allergy looks like?

    Added:
    • Samantha

      That’s what it looks like, it’s red with white bumps or sometimes even red bumps. I’m 19 and have the condition myself.

      Added:
    • Kate

      Has anyone heard of current cold desensitisation program’s? I have read a few clinical articles on this but they were old and wondered if there was anywhere that could treat this. It seems simple enough in that your body is gradually exposed to more cold over a period of time but it’s not the sort of thing I want to take a chance on trailing at home without proper support!

      Added:
  121. JM

    I had this horrible terrible burden also, but there is HOPE!

    I developed it at age 19 ONLY on my face. My face of all things and it really hampered me. I would get it in AC in the summer, and I would get swelling and hives on the face. In winter I couldn’t walk farther than 2 feet for 2 minutes.

    When I was diagnosed at age 24, I was studying for the bar and was put on doxepin after a nasty bout from the AC. I hated this drug and became so fearful of ever being with it in winter that I eventually just came off it. The embarrassment the condition caused me for years-having to explain the allergy to peers “your allergic to what???”-dating, and hiding the truth, dreading fire drills in winter at work-ugh…then about a year before I was married, I was getting shiners under the eyes, bruises that were related to my allergy to the cold. I had a job by then that required me to walk in town for blocks to the train, even in winter. I was given the new drug at that time, Protopic and it changed my life. It got rid of the shiners, and I used it sparingly on my face post-exposure. I never had another episode. It went away.

    Today, 15 years later I have been free of all angiadema/weals/hives and can ski, I can take a sleigh ride, I can walk a long time in cold, sub zero temps to my job and I have no reaction. If anyone develops this very annoying curse, suddenly, know that it can go away, you can be cured, of course mine was not systemic, my reactions were face, eyes, and eyebrows, never swimming, never cold foods, only face. But it was severe. I believe my walking to the train, though it caused me anxiety, little by little gave me immunity to the condition, like an allergy shot.

    Good luck, fell your pain all.

    Added:
  122. Rammi

    I am 25 years old. When I’m exposed to sun or wind my color changes immediately. It turns into a dark colour. Please suggest some tips to get rid of this problem. My skin never looks fresh for long time :( :(

    Added:
  123. KRANTZ DAVID T.YABO

    What specific way or treatment can be used to prevent and stop this kind of allergy? It really affects my social life. Please help me for this problem.

    Added:
    • KRANTZ DAVID T.YABO

      I am 19 years old. I am wondering, how did I get this skin problem? I have suffered this kind of disease for almost a month.

      Added:
      • Maggie

        I’m 29 and my cold urticaria started 2 years ago for no known reason. From everything I’ve read, seen, tried, etc there is nothing that will magically fix it…sorry. I did come across a few case studies where elimination of medicine or food relieved cold urticaria. One person developed it after starting a medicine, stopped and the hives went away, started again and the hives came back, and stopped again and they went away. One person eliminated gluten and their hives went away. You could always think about if you started eating something or taking something in the past few months which could have triggered it. Or you could always try going gluten free. Personally I am on a gluten free, grain free, dairy free, legume free, nut/seed free, and msg free diet but mine haven’t gone away. I have autoimmune problems though and every other problem I have is a LOT better.

        I don’t take any antihistamines as long-term medicines have previously messed up my whole system and I’m not willing to go back to that….like I said, I am a LOT better.

        But there are things that help so I will make you a list. It is a pain to do these different things but at the same time will help keep the hives under control.

        1. Wear two pairs of socks (but make sure the under layer is moisture wicking).
        2. Wear a pair of thermal leggings under your jeans (not the standard waffle ones as they are not very warm. Moisture wicking is also recommended). As a girl I have found some fleece lined leggings and they are great but I don’t know if there are ones that would be socially acceptable for a guy to wear.
        3. Don’t bother swimming unless it is warm water. 10 min is my max before developing hives and then there is no good way to get warm unless there is a hot tub.
        4. Scarves, gloves, and hats are your friend.
        5. I always wear slippers in the house as the cooler air on my feet while walking around triggers hives. This is always worse in summer since the air conditioning makes the floors cold.
        6. Avoid sweating anywhere it is cold or cool. The moisture on your skin can cause hives so I have to be careful how much I exercise and if I do I need a long sleeve shirt to throw on afterwards so my skin temperature doesn’t drop too fast even though my core is warm.
        7. I used to wear a lot of ballet flat shoes without socks. In summer I can wear whatever I want but in spring and fall I need socks and closed toe shoes and in late fall and all of winter I wear boots as anything with airflow can trigger hives.
        8. Get yourself a heated blanket and start paying attention to the earliest signs. If I start to feel cold or notice subconscious itching I immediately get under a heated blanket (or heating pad) and it goes away quickly. If I wait until it gets bad it takes a lot longer for them to go away.
        9. If you are going to eat/drink something cold have a hot beverage handy to sip. Drinking or eating too much cold foods won’t give me hives but it will make me feel pretty awful.
        10. I’ve noticed certain areas won’t develop hives but will get angioedema which is much harder to get rid of…the bottoms of my feet and my hands. So if you start to notice those areas are cold or you develop a much larger bump, get that warm fast.
        11. Warm/hot water warms me up the fastest but then I’m wet and can get cold again so I prefer the heating pad. Plus if I get hives anywhere I also get them on my thighs so getting wet generally involves a full bath.

        It sucks. It really does. And it sucks to have to explain to your friends and family that, no you can’t do that because it is too cold. And it can be embarrassing to need to be dropped off at the door during winter sometimes. However, last winter I had hives almost daily and this winter I really only get them once a week and they are fairly mild when I do get them.

        Also keep in mind hives can be triggered by cold or cooling temperatures. It may not be very cold out but if you cool down fast (like when it is windy) then you can get them.

        Best of luck.

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    • Darwin Panganiban

      I’m 38 and suffering from this allergy since I was 33. It really effects my life. Please help me to get rid of this allergy.

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  124. Leah McCord

    I’m curious to know why, if cold urticaria can be passed through blood transfusions, The Red Cross has no limitations on people who suffer from it giving blood donations? I, myself, have actually contacted The Red Cross and recieved a response back stating that there was no evidence that blood donation can pass CU.

    Is The Red Cross not educated in blood?

    I would really love a reply as I am a frequent blood donator with O neg type blood.

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    • La La

      Leah, I’m in Australia and the Red Cross here will not accept anything from me. Please make sure that your local Red Cross contact doublechecks your donor status with doctors. I phrase it as ‘I have cold urticaria, which is a poorly understood auto-immune condition, and have been told it may be transmitted to recipients – can you please check?’

      It’s possible they may accept your donation at present, but only use it for plasma?

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  125. Kiana Wright

    I have had cold urticaria since I was about 5 or 6 years old, and I am 19 now. I have always wondered, how did I get this particular skin disorder? Also is mine genetic? How did it form?

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  126. same

    Doctor, I am having runny nose/sore throat/sneezing when i fly, recently I am getting runny/stuffy nose and sneezing if I go outside in winter. I was suffering from sore throat since last year. Its clear phlegm. Adding to that i had a tick bite last year summer. Please advice any thoughts. Thank you.

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  127. JEFFGISH

    does it lead to weight loss?

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  128. cherry rose deniega

    hi i am a13 yrs. old girl… i have also the allergy called cold urticaria. every 12 midnight sometimes 2 o’clock in the morning it will itch just like I’m bitten by a mosquito. what tablet i would take or this is just my psychological.

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    • Vipul

      Hi, I have also the same problem, Sometimes as midnight, it was like thousands of mosquitos bite me, huh, I am using Cetcip(a tablet, usually available in INDIA). And it’s effect is wonderful. I am able to get normal in just 10 to 15 min.

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  129. Sharon

    Hello, my 2 year old daughter also has urticaria and I’m so sad for her. The strangest thing is that she developed it over night. It’s been very hot here in CA and because of that I took her to a water park. She played and got wet, and 10 minutes later her entire body was full blown with hives. I dried her up but she was in so much pain still. Her allergy specialist suggested that an Epi pen isn’t needed, but I feel that she might need one just incase.. I’m against giving her prednisone because of the side effects and Benadryl. Is it possible she’ll outgrow it?? Or will it get worse over time? I guess I’m hoping to hear that it’s a temporary thing and she’ll be able to enjoy being a happy kid in the hot summers as other kids do as they freely splash around in the water.

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    • Nicola123

      Hi I am 22 and living with this, I have had it ever since I can remember, my Dr proscribes me with Fexofenadine, its not magic but it relives some of the symptoms at least.
      I find that my allergy comes out all over, I can’t eat cold foods or drink cold drinks as they make my tounge swell, my hands will swell when exposed to cold temperatures and I get a rash all over my body. Nasal congestion happens all the time for me also.

      As a child it was never this bad, there have been reports that it usually lasts around 5 years, but mine only really seems to get worse… I can’t imagine it’ll go away but I really hope your daughters does.
      An epi pen really shouldn’t be needed unless you’re planning on throwing her in a frozen lake anytime soon, try not to worry about it :) its frustrating, and make sure dr’s listen. I remember once my mum and I had been to the Doctors for weeks on end and no one believed her, they just thought I was lying until she made me stand outside in a t-shirt on a particularly windy day!
      Cold water is a trigger for mine, or cold exposures whilst wet, for instance getting out of a swimming pool to a colder temperature will make mine come out, its annoying, but you learn to deal with it.
      I hope some of this helps a little…

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      • Subrata Majumdar

        I am suffering with cold allargy science last many years. My main problem is that, in winter I used to suffer more. Continiously cough comes out, but sinzing, coughing , running nose is not there. What is treatment you advise.

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      • Veljo

        In May I noticed a rash on my hands, next day on stomach and then legs and basically all over except back and face! I went to many dermatologist no one had a clue about it. Now when cold came my hand swell and face gets a bit numb and has this burning feeling. Rash is more like hives now and still there all the time. Some of it goes away only to appear in diferent places. I wonder if those hives are related to my cold allergy that my doctor diagnosed me with just days ago. I mean they are constantly there even if im in very warm weather for months…im so troubled with it. Will this allergy go away. Im 34 and never had problem with cold before.

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      • Arun

        Does any medication help prevent the appearance of cold urticaria?

        My six year old son has suddenly started reacting to cold temperatures. At the moment it is mainly his face and if you take him into warm temperatures it then vanishes within five to ten minutes. Does that sound like your symptoms?

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      • Ana

        Hahaha. Same thing happened when I was a kid. Doc thought I was crazy when I told him I was allergic to the cold. He made me put my arm under cold running water. When he saw my arm break into hives he couldn’t believe it.

        I agree it sucks, but you just learn how to deal with it. I have had this allergy for 33 years now. And no cure.

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    • Ana

      Don’t know if you have found a solution. But I have had this allergy since I was 1 and now I’m 33 with 2 children. For the first 15 years of my life I went to doctors and specialist after specialist tried meds that only made me drowsy and just didn’t work — especially for a child. They said take it before cold exposure, but sitting on cold cement or on the ground would trigger a reaction, a cool breeze, or the freezer section at the grocery store, so that would mean I would have to take it everyday.

      So I told my parents I wanted no more meds or doctors. I just learned how to deal with it :( I was told I might grow out of it when my cycle started and nope still allergic. They said maybe when you have children. Nope still allergic.

      I still got to do the summer getting wet thing, but my parents had to keep a close eye on me. Had dry clothing near to change me right away or if we were at the beach they would have warm water in the car to warm me up quick or at home a warm bath. The warm water get rid of the hives and makes me feel better the fastest. I would love to say it’s gotten better as I’ve grown. But since I’m an adult now I spend less time outside so I guess I dont breakout as easy. I have noticed that I have more tolerance in the cold water when swimming now opposed to when I was younger, but I only swim when it’s very hot or on vacation in warm waters.

      I have read there are different types of reactions. Growing up I had extreme reactions. I passed out a few times and had extreme swelling that took more than 5 hours for swelling to go away. My lips even swell when I eat Popsicles.

      Ultimately I just had to understand that I had to bundle up and stay warm when it’s cold.

      Sorry if this is bad news. But it sounds worse than it really is. I’d rather be allergic to the cold than to the sun. Hey, I just gotta put on a sweater and I’m good. You just gotta work with it. I’m glad my parents were ok with me not taking all the meds. Just keep an eye on your child and enjoy life.

      There could be far more life treating conditions someone could have.

      Best of luck!
      God bless

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    • Kate

      Hi my 10 yr old daughter has started suffering from this out of the blue. She has always been fit healthy and allergy free. There isn’t any obvious explanation for it at all

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    • Boblyn

      I don’t want to discouraged you. But I had this cold urticaria since I was a kid. I just found out now the name for it. Cold environment or being in cold water (pools and sea) even being in rain for 10 minutes or even less triggers this redness and itchy skin. Even strong cold winds causes it. It usually starts as small swollen spot then they will combine together creating huge swolen patch.
      The reaction is the same everytime but i can say that i can slowly tolerate minor cold temperature. It used to develop quite rapidly even slightly cool breeze. But its still bad swimming in the sea and cold pools.
      I’m already 24 and still suffer from it but luckily enough the weather here in Perth hasn’t been too rough. Winter is slowly approaching and I hope i would slowly develop immunity to it. I have only been in Australia for the last 6 years and coming from tropical country Philippines, i didn’t really had a chance to expose myself to cold temperature to develop immunity.
      I did notice that the first winter in australia, my reaction is a lot worse and more often. Last year’s winter i had less episode of reaction.
      I hope that your kid will outgrow this but so far in my case i haven’t fully develop the immunity in my 6 years battling winter but i’m keeping positive. And i continue to hate swimming in pools and sea. Except heated pools…^^___^^

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  130. dawn

    I had allergy to cold uticaria as a child 51now and for 7yr had wheezing breathlessness and coughing from Nov to April being treat for asthma steroids inhalers seem to make me worse I cough till I am sick can’t talk as two sentences in get breathless and start coughing I feel it is the allergy what do others take to stop this

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    • dana

      Hi I also have cold uticaria, I am 33 years old and it started to be worse after giving birth to my child last year. I am getting hives and itchy skin everytime it´s a bit windy or cool weather, also getting this unstoppable cough every winter, which I suspect it might be cuased by the urticaria…any idea what can I do to stop this? I am brestfeeding and don´t want to take the antihistamines…is there any homeopatic/alternative way?

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      • linda

        take allegra, its the only cure.

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        • brenda dick

          Allegra is not a cure. There is no cure. Some of these meds also can stop working with no warning. Please be careful. Follow your Doctor’s orders. Be safe…..

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        • Ramona

          My doctor give me Zantac which is histamine (2 blocker,) 2 times a day. He also gave me cyproheptadine 2 times a day and doxepin. I carry fast acting benydral and 2 epi-pens. (Both block histamine 1) these help me, but I still can’t go out when it is really cold. Some days I feel like I have the flu other days are better.

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          • Ramona

            Cyproheptadine and doxepin are h 1 blockers. Sorry for the typo.

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    • Edward Price

      hot hot showers im 45 had urticaria all my life

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    • Arun

      So you had it as a child and then it vanished for a while, or you have always had it?

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