Cold allergy

Cold allergy is a rare condition in which the body begins to produce special proteins that the immune system perceives as foreign substances. As a result, an abnormal immune response is triggered, leading to symptoms of cold allergy. This condition is also considered a hypersensitivity reaction to low temperatures affecting the human body.

Causes and Triggering Factors

The exact causes of cold allergy are still unknown. However, doctors identify several risk factors that may contribute to its development:

• Heredity The condition is more common among members of the same family across generations. Those who have suffered from various allergic diseases since childhood, including bronchial asthma, urticaria, angioedema, are also at higher risk.
• Vascular system disorders Poor microcirculation in the hands and feet and impaired blood flow to the face can contribute to cold allergy, especially in individuals with certain medical conditions: Vegetative-vascular dystonia (VVD), Obesity or excess weight, Raynaud’s syndrome;
• Chronic diseases; Conditions affecting the stomach, intestines, or upper respiratory tract;
• Endocrine disorders associated with malfunctions of the thyroid gland or adrenal glands;
• People with highly sensitive skin and dermatological conditions: Neurodermatitis, Eczema, Psoriasis.

Cold allergy on the hands may be triggered by frequent contact with cold objects, outdoor work, dishwashing, cleaning with detergents, shoveling snow, swimming in pools or open water, and consuming ice cream or cold beverages regularly.

Another risk factor for cold allergy in adults is prolonged use of immune-stimulating medications without medical supervision. The condition is more common in people with high skin and mucous membrane permeability. Certain medications, such as antibiotics, muscle relaxants, contrast agents for X-rays, and ACE inhibitors, may also provoke an allergic reaction.  Interestingly, cold allergy has been reported to co-occur with food allergies in the summer.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cold allergy vary from person to person. Typically, the body parts exposed to cold air or objects are affected. In some cases, mucous membrane irritation occurs, while symptoms affecting the stomach or intestines are rarer.

It is important to understand what are cold allergy symptoms. The most common manifestation resembles urticaria, affecting the face, lips, or other exposed skin areas. Symptoms include: Redness
Swelling
Intense itching Multiple itchy blisters, which may form scabs when scratched

You should know how the cold allergy looks like. Cold allergy can sometimes resemble contact dermatitis, with localized redness and itching. Blisters filled with serous fluid may appear 1–2 days after exposure. They will be filled with serous fluid. Once they break, small erosions form, healing without scarring. If the condition becomes chronic, persistent redness, peeling, cracks, and slow-healing wounds may develop.
Cold allergy on the face may also appear as cheilitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the lips, characterized by: Redness
Dryness
Peeling
Tightness of the skin Sufferers often lick their lips, which worsens the condition.

Other possible symptoms include:
Redness and burning in the eyes
Excessive tearing

Vasomotor rhinitis  with sneezing and nasal discharge or bronchospasm leading to breathlessness and a sensation of air hunger.

Prevention

Preventing cold allergy is crucial. To minimize the risk:

• Apply protective creams to the exposed skin before going outside in cold weather. Use lip balm.
• Wear protective clothing, including hats, scarves, and gloves. A hood is essential in windy conditions.
• Massage the face and hands daily to strengthen blood vessels and reduce symptoms.
• Avoid cold drinks and desserts in both winter and summer.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. Take multivitamins twice a year as prescribed by a doctor.
• Use skincare products formulated for highly sensitive skin.
• Stay indoors during extreme cold whenever possible.

Following a healthy lifestyle and dietary habits can help prevent cold allergy attacks. If symptoms develop, seeking medical attention is essential.