Posted by april on November 01, 2000 at 15:03:32:

In Reply to: Cold Urtecaria-I'm Allergic to Cold?? posted by Allison on August 07, 2000 at 12:44:02:

: I have recently been diagnosed with Cold Urtecaria, whenever I get cold or experience a temperature change from warmer to cooler, my skin becomes itchy and I get hives. This is especially noticable when I go swimming in cold water. I dont know anything about this condition, so any information that someone might have or anyone with similar experiences would be appreciated!!~Allison

Allison and Kate - I was first diagnosed with cold urticaria when i was 12 (i'm now 24) and the doc also said it wouldn't last. There have been no signs of symptons improving. I have found that Zyrtec (a common allergy medication) works quite well and i only take it when i know i'll be outside in the cold or in the water for an extended period of time. What's so great about it is that it kicks in within an hour.