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A member asked:

I'm wondering why are my fingers swollen in the cold?

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. Raymond Wittstadt answered

Specializes in Hand Surgery

Reaction: Some people have what is called cold erythema. This is an allergic type reaction to cold exposure. The cold air causes histamine to be released and this causes swelling and itching. You can help this by taking an antihistamine like Claritin or Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and try to keep your hand warm or wrap cold items with a towel.

Dr Ali agreed

Answered 2/10/2017

4.9k views

Thank

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Just this year- starting this summer, actually- just started getting itchy, swollen fingers when exposed to mild cold, like a 50 deg. steering wheel.

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