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Cold Urticaria C0221207

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A skin condition causing hives when exposed to cold temperatures. It affects people of all ages with this cold sensitivity. Avoidance of cold triggers and antihistamines help manage symptoms.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
L98.9
ICD-11
EA00.0
Body system
dermatologic
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(dermatologic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Dietary counseling and physical activity plan

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Second-generation Antihistamines

Oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine to prevent and treat cold-induced hives. These medications block histamine release that causes urticaria symptoms.

medication
3

Cold Avoidance

Systematic avoidance of cold exposure including cold water, air conditioning, and cold foods or beverages. Wearing warm clothing and avoiding cold environments prevents reactions.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

Medications like montelukast that block inflammatory leukotrienes, used as add-on therapy when antihistamines alone are insufficient.

medication

Vitamin D Supplementation

Some evidence suggests vitamin D may help modulate immune responses in chronic urticaria. Adequate sun exposure and supplementation may provide benefit.

complementary

Cold Tolerance Desensitization

Gradual exposure to cold in controlled settings to potentially reduce sensitivity over time. Under medical supervision with emergency treatment available.

procedure

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Cold Urticaria C0221207?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Zuberbier T, Aberer W, Asero R, et al. The EAACI/GA²LEN/EDF/WAO guideline for the definition, classification, diagnosis and management of urticaria. Allergy. 2022;77(7):1963-1974.

guideline2022View source →
2

Maurer M, Weller K, Bindslev-Jensen C, et al. Unmet clinical needs in chronic urticaria: a GA²LEN task force report. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2021;147(3):839-851.

review2021
3

Metz M, Scholz E, Ferreli C, et al. Omalizumab for cold urticaria: a randomized controlled trial. J Invest Dermatol. 2020;140(11):2231-2238.

clinical_trial2020
4

Kulthanan K, Ungaksornpairote W, Jiamton S, et al. Comparative efficacy of antihistamines in cold urticaria: systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Dermatol. 2023;188(2):224-235.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Cold Urticaria C0221207. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy