Simple changes to your lifestyle may be able to help you prevent hives from reoccurring in the future. If you have allergies and you know which substances are likely to cause an allergic reaction, your doctor will suggest that you avoid any possible exposure to these factors. Allergy shots are another option that may help you reduce the risk of experiencing hives again.

Avoid being in high-humidity areas or wearing tight clothing if you have recently had a hives outbreak.

cold urticaria prevention

You can help prevent a recurrent episode of cold urticaria with these practices:

• Take an over-the-counter antihistamine before cold exposure.
• Take medications as prescribed.
• Protect your skin from the cold or sudden changes in temperature. For example, wear a wetsuit when swimming in cold water. Some people have had success with this method, but it isn't proved.
• 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.

Patients with acute urticaria should avoid any medication, food, or other allergen that has precipitated urticaria or other serious allergic reaction previously. Chronic urticaria is seldom related to food allergens, and complicated elimination diets are seldom of benefit.[43]

Long-Term Monitoring