Daughter developing hives to cool water and weather...

[willow_down]

My 19 year old daughter has a hx of asthma and allergies that she is on shots for.  We live in Florida.  Recently when she goes in an unheated pool or one of our springs that are always 72 degrees she breaks out in hives!  Is she allergic to the cold?  What can be done about this?  How can you be allergic to the cold?  Is this something that she is always going to have to live with?  Please let me know and thank you for your time!
Susan

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

You can indeed be allergic to cool water--it's called aquagenic urticaria.  A dip in cool water for someone with this uncommon condition can be dangerous.  

Your daughter should be evalauted soon by a dermatologist or allergist.  She shouldn't swim alone.  

Treatment consists of antihistamines and other measures.  You can read aome more about this condition at: http://www.dermnetnz.org/index.html.  Look up their article on "Urticaria," which means hives.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff

[willow_down]

Thank you so much for your timely reply!  I really appreciate it!
Susan