Prevention

The following tips may help prevent a recurrent episode of cold urticaria:

• Take an over-the-counter antihistamine before cold exposure.
• Take medications as prescribed.
• Protect your skin from the cold or sudden changes in temperature. If you're going swimming, dip your hand in the water first and see if you experience a skin reaction.
• Avoid ice-cold drinks and food to prevent swelling of your throat.
• If your doctor prescribed an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen, Auvi-Q, others), keep it with you to help prevent serious reactions.
• If you're scheduled for surgery, talk with your surgeon beforehand about your cold urticaria. The surgical team can take steps to help prevent cold-induced symptoms in the operating room.