Kallöverkänslighet

Kallöverkänslighet, sometimes referred to as cold urticaria, is a physical urticaria triggered by exposure to cold. It is a condition where the skin reacts to cold temperatures with hives, itching, and redness. This reaction can occur when the skin is exposed to cold air, water, or cold objects. The severity of the reaction can vary from person to person, and can range from mild discomfort to a severe anaphylactic reaction in rare cases.

The exact cause of kallöverkänslighet is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the release of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells in the skin. These chemicals cause the blood vessels to dilate and the skin to become inflamed, leading to the characteristic symptoms of hives. The condition can be primary, meaning it occurs without an underlying medical cause, or secondary, resulting from another medical condition such as infections or certain types of cancer.

Diagnosis is typically made through a cold stimulation test, where an ice cube is applied to the skin for a short period to observe for a reaction. Treatment focuses on avoiding cold triggers and managing symptoms with antihistamines. In cases of severe reactions, epinephrine may be necessary. While there is no cure for kallöverkänslighet, most individuals can manage the condition effectively by taking precautions to protect their skin from cold.