What could cause a breakout of hives during winter months?

Question

During the winter months, I have a condition that seems to come around when it gets cold and dry outside. I get very over worked in the simplest situations like going shopping or encountering a warm place. Exercising also causes red bumps to break out all over my body and it's a painful process that last for several minutes. It makes it hard to do anything for a few months.

Does anyone have any idea what this might be and how to stop it? I've tried using lotion and taking shorter showers in not so warm water.

Answer 1

Hives (urticaria) are an allergic reaction of the skin. They appear as raised, red, itchy bumps (wheals) of different shapes and sizes, with defined red margins and pale centers. Hives may appear and then disappear at random. They may seem to move from place to place on the skin. Hives may range in size from less than 0.25 in.(0.6 cm) to 3 in.(8 cm) across or larger. Patches of hives may combine to form raised, reddened skin over large areas of the body. Hives may last a few minutes or a few days.

Hives may appear as a reaction to a medication, food, or infection. A single swelling that looks like hives often occurs after an insect bite at the site of the bite. Other possible causes of hives include contact with plants, things you breathe in (inhalants), stress, makeup, and exposure to heat, cold, or sunlight. Often a cause cannot be found.

Hives can be minor or they can be the first sign of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that requires emergency care.

Answer 2

As you are probably already aware, hives (urticaria/angiedema) can be caused by hot and cold temperatures, medications, foods, insect bites, chemicals, infections, emotional stress, etc. Is it possible you could have an allergy to the cooling lotion? It might be a good idea to give this product a miss for a while just to see what happens. It has been my experience that such lotions cause more issues for sensitive individuals like ourselves. This is why it is important to check your personal care products for potential allergens/intolerances, as many products on the market (shampoo, conditioner, soaps, etc) are particularly dangerous for those with sensitive skin. (Yes, even the ones claiming to be hypoallergenic!) It’s encouraging that you are limiting direct water contact and have decreased your bathing temperature. Room/house deodorants are also a major culprit for many individuals, as are pets. It would be wise to complete a ‘food’ diary, in order to determine any potential allergens/intolerances that may be adding to the problem. Remember a healthy diet is vital for good health, so include lots of fresh, clean water and fresh fruit and vegetables. If you are unsure whether food might be a suspect, then an elimination diet may be in order. Most general practitioners will recommend some type of steroidal treatment however it has been our experience that these do little to resolve an underlying issue and will only add further strain to the immune system. (Hives are usually a sign of toxicity.) However if the problem is a short-term one, then it may be an option. Wet bandaging is also another option, one that has offered much assistance to us; as are specifically prescribed herbal teas. Irrespective of how you personally choose to deal with things, drinks plenty of water and consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Wishing you a speedy recovery.

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Answer 3

Your skin gets really dry durning the winter months and so does your hair. Try to drink lots of water and stay hydrated. Also use lots of lotion to prevent these hives. Vasiline works if you put a lot on and wear sweats or gloves over the areas you applied it to. There is also a lotion called Eucerin which works really good. It is dermatologist recommended. You can probably find it at a wal-mart or walgreens. Hope that helps. It helped me a lot.

Answer 4

i have same issue and anti-hestimine only helps in making it less intense . seems all answers here are not whats being asked about . i have tested keeping my skin moist and oily. it helps take away normal dryness but not the attacks , hives ruin everything all winter. i dont really do much in winter. just sit indoor's when sun is out and keep my room normal temp not hot like others. i guess only possible way is to get a full allergy and body test. hope u have cured it in past 8 years.

Answer 5

When I was a child I used to get hives all the time and finally found I was allergic to wool, it was OK if I was cool and outside but if I got warm here came giant hives. Have never worn wool since.

Answer 6

Eczema patients can avoid scratchy fibers for softer ones like bamboo, cotton, or silk, which are gentler on the skin. Opting to buy organic fibers can also be a wise, healthy, and eco-friendly alternative. Learn here https://tr.im/rJAo3

Answer 7

Have you tried using unscented laundry detergents? My cousin had to stop using anything on his skin that had fragrance. When it is winter besides the cold we have a lot less air to our skin and fabrics are closer it seems and they are thicker.