A 16-year-old A-level student from north Wales has been diagnosed with cold urticaria, a rare and incurable allergy that causes hives when temperatures fall below 12C. Amber Woodward has been experiencing red, itchy rashes since 2022, which have significantly impacted her daily life.
After her GP initially attributed the symptoms to air pollution, Amber researched her condition and identified cold urticaria herself. She returned to her doctor and was referred to a dermatologist, who confirmed the diagnosis in 2023. Despite taking antihistamines, her condition has not improved.
Amber now avoids outdoor activities, often turning down plans with friends. She wears leggings under her clothes year-round, except in summer, to minimise exposure. At school and her part-time waitressing job, she feels self-conscious when her skin flares up after being outside.
She is due to start antihistamine injections every four weeks and hopes for future research to allow her a normal life. Amber also experiences reactions after swimming or showering, regardless of temperature. She said: 'I just want to be able to do normal things and not have to worry about it.'
