Temperature triggers: Managing cold and heat-induced swelling
Fact-checked by Angioedema is a condition that causes swelling beneath the skin or in the mucus membranes. Different types of angioedema have different underlying causes and triggers. For some people, extreme temperatures or temperature changes may be one of those triggers.
If you notice that your symptoms worsen during cold weather, hot weather, or sudden temperature changes, understanding how temperature affects your body may help you better manage attacks and reduce your risk of severe swelling episodes.
How cold temperatures can spark a flare
For some people, exposure to cold can trigger a skin reaction called cold urticaria. This typically causes hives, also called urticaria, and sometimes swelling.
Some people experience only skin symptoms, while others experience more severe symptoms throughout the body, including a serious reaction called cold-induced anaphylaxis.
In general, angioedema is caused by having too much histamine or bradykinin, which are substances that cause your blood vessels to dilate and become leaky. In cold urticaria, temperature-induced angioedema is usually caused by immune cells called mast cells releasing too much histamine in response to cold temperatures.
However, cold can also trigger swelling in people with hereditary angioedema (HAE) and other forms of angioedema that are not caused by allergies. In these conditions, the swelling happens because cold activates a signaling pathway that increases bradykinin levels.
The role of heat and humidity in swelling
On the other end of the spectrum, thermal triggers, such as heat or humidity, also may trigger or worsen angioedema for some people. Heat-induced reactions usually involve hives, with or without angioedema.
Doctors generally recognize two types of heat-related hives:
- Heat-induced urticaria: This occurs when you come into contact with a hot object or surface.
- Cholinergic urticaria: This occurs when your body temperature rises, which can happen due to exercise, strong emotions, hot showers or baths, or eating hot or spicy foods.
Like cold-induced urticaria, these reactions are thought to be caused primarily by excess histamine release.
Physical exertion and heat can also trigger HAE attacks. Even if heat does not directly trigger a flare, you may notice that swelling seems worse in hot environments. Your body responds to heat by widening blood vessels, a process called vasodilation, to help release heat and keep you cool. Because angioedema already involves dilated blood vessels, heat may worsen swelling in some people.
You may notice worsening symptoms when:
- spending extended time outdoors in hot weather
- sitting in hot, poorly ventilated spaces
- using hot tubs or saunas
- taking very hot showers or baths
Choosing clothing for temperature changes
Seasonal changes and angioedema can be difficult to manage. If your symptoms are affected by temperature extremes, taking steps to limit exposure may help reduce flares.
Dressing warmly and wearing layers may help reduce the frequency of cold-related episodes. You also may benefit from clothing that helps maintain a more consistent body temperature.
Consider options such as:
- Layering clothing: Layers allow you to adjust more easily to changing temperatures.
- Choosing insulating fabrics in cold weather: Materials that retain heat may help reduce cold exposure.
- Selecting breathable fabrics in warm weather: Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials may help your body release heat more effectively.
- Protecting exposed skin: Gloves, scarves, and hats may help reduce direct exposure to cold air.
While clothing cannot prevent all flares, it may help reduce the impact of temperature extremes on your body.
Managing transitions between extreme environments
Sudden or extreme temperature changes can sometimes trigger more severe reactions. For example, swimming in a cold lake on a hot day may increase the risk of a serious reaction. If you experience temperature-related angioedema symptoms, you may want to avoid activities that involve drastic temperature shifts.
You may find it helpful to:
- avoid sudden exposure to extreme cold or heat
- gradually cool down after exercise
- allow your body time to adjust when moving between indoor and outdoor environments
- monitor symptoms during activities that involve significant temperature changes
If you participate in activities that involve extreme environments, talk with your doctor about medications that may help reduce the likelihood of severe reactions or safely treat them if they occur. Depending on your symptoms and diagnosis, this may include antihistamines or other treatments.
While you may not be able to avoid every trigger, understanding how temperature affects your symptoms can help you make informed choices and better manage angioedema in daily life.
Angioedema News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
