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01928.txt
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1994-01-17
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$Unique_ID{BRK01928}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Cause of Small, Itchy Hives After Morning Jog}
$Subject{Cause causes itch Itchy hive Hives Cold Urticaria allergy allergies
allergic eczema asthma food trauma pressure dermatographism medicate
medication medications wheals pruritus lesion lesions wheeze wheezing short
shortness breath breathing precaution precautions prescription prescriptions
antihistamine antihistamines reaction reactions exercise exercising}
$Volume{}
$Log{}
Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
Cause of Small, Itchy Hives After Morning Jog
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QUESTION: I recently married a wonderful man, and now have found out that he
has a very peculiar condition. He is active, exercises regularly and is in
general good health. However, we now have moved to this northern state, and
when he returns from his morning jog, his head and face, and sometimes his
lower arms are covered with many small hives which itch something fierce. Can
you tell me where they come from? How dangerous is this condition? Would you
please tell me what can be done to stop them from developing? I know I have
asked many questions, but as you must understand, I am very concerned.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANSWER: You have provided all the information that permits me to identify the
problem, which is called "Cold Urticaria", another way of describing hives
that develop when the patient is exposed to either cold air or cold water.
While it may be seen more frequently in individuals who have other types of
allergic problems, such as eczema or asthma, no clear reason can be found as
its primary cause in most cases. It may be related to certain food allergies,
or in people who have skin that is particularly sensitive to trauma or
pressure (dermatographism). It can also occur in association with other
underlying conditions, as well as allergy to certain medications. In general,
the history is pretty much as you describe it. The patent develops small
wheals or hives, from 2 to 4 mm, on areas of the skin that have been exposed
to the cold elements during a period of exercise. A severe itching (pruritus)
is often associated with the skin lesions. For most patients, the hives
disappear on their own after a short period of time, and as the skin warms.
Some studies seem to indicate that the rash diminishes in severity over a
period of time, and so once your new husband becomes used to your new climate,
the hives may become less troublesome or fail to develop. A severe condition,
anaphylaxis, can occur with wheezing and shortness of breath, and so it pays
to take a few precautions. The first is to avoid exposing any portion of the
body to excessive cold. Use warm clothing, gloves and face masks to cover all
portions of the body. Reduce the frequency of the workouts, or choose a
warmer part of the day. If hives continue and are bothersome, prescription
antihistamines can be used to reduce both the intensity and severity of the
reaction. Check with your own physician for assistance, and a close up look.
He or she may discover something I haven't covered.
----------------
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.