Skin Allergy caused by own Sweat - Cholinergic Urticaria

Some people develop allergy to their own sweat. It usually occurs in warm weather with too much moisture, where sweat does not evaporate, or if a person exercise too much and remain in sweat for hours. In medical terms it is known as Cholinergic Urticaria (UC). The good thing about this allergy is that it can automatically resolve in few hours, just like it appears, if you cool the affected area with ice or cold water. But the bad news is that it can come back again if too much sweating happens again. Here we will discuss the reasons and treatment of Cholinergic Urticaria.

Cholinergic Urticaria (UC)

Cholinergic Urticaria (UC) is an allergy caused by nerve fibers in your sweat glands. If these nerves experience too much sweat and heat, then itchy red hives may appear on your skin. However some conditions give a good reason for UC to appear. Some of them are:

• Hot Shower
• Warm weather with too much humidity
• Wearing tight and skinny clothes
• Getting nervous and starting to sweat
• Being in sweat for long durations
• Stress

Note: Some people may get Cholinergic Urticaria as their body reacts against antibody in their own sweat called immunoglobulin-G (IgG). It can occur in both men and women.

Symptoms of Cholinergic Urticaria

• Small red bumps with flares or circles
• Itchy, tingly, and warm sensation
• Skin can look swollen and blotchy
• Affect chest, upper back, arms and face
• Such hives usually fade away after few hours as your body cools down.

Diagnosis of Cholinergic Urticaria

A dermatologist or allergist can diagnose this condition. They may ask you about any food allergies or any other skin allergies in past. You may be asked to run a stationary bike to make you sweat and make the red bumps appear.

Treatment of Cholinergic Urticaria

Antihistamines such as Cetirizine, Loratadine, or Diphenhydramine can be used to treat CU. But of it does not work then you doctor may recommend some steroids for short duration.

Prevention from Cholinergic Urticaria

Prevention is the best advise given by any doctor while treating some allergy. Same thing is here.

• Avoid warm or too humid environment
• Wear loose clothes
• If stress is the reason behind your allergy then try to avoid such situation that make you feel stressed.