Chilblains

What are chilblains? Chilblains are patches of discoloured (red, blue, white, purple), swollen and itchy skin, believed to be caused by a combination of and poor circulation. The toes are particularly vulnerable, but other extremities that can develop chilblains include fingers, earlobes and the nose. and damp socks can contribute by further reducing circulation to the toes.

Despite the discomfort, most chilblains don’t cause any permanent damage to tissue, although in serious cases, it can result in an ulcer. As not everyone exposed to cold and damp conditions will develop chilblains, it is believed that those who do are overly sensitive to changes in weather and temperature. ) are most susceptible.

Chilblains most often develop on the toes

Common symptoms include: ulceration, in severe cases

Although the exact cause of chilblains remains unknown, it is thought to be associated with the body’s reaction to cold weather. comprises arteries, veins and capillaries that carry blood to every cell.

The circulatory system is sensitive to temperature

In hot conditions, the body expands blood vessels close to the skin so that excess heat can be lost to the air, thereby cooling the body. In cold weather, these blood vessels constrict to conserve body heat. This constriction can reduce circulation to the extremities, such as the toes, of blood and warmth, if your peripheral circulation is sluggish.

The symptoms of chilblains are made worse with sudden temperature changes – for example, entering a warm house after being outside in the cold. Similarly, heating cold feet too quickly, by propping them next to a heater or using a hot water bottle, may also exacerbate the condition.

Therefore it is often better to concentrate on warming your whole body instead.

Suggestions for treating chilblains at home include:

• Resist the urge to scratch
• as this will further damage the skin. Massage calamine lotion or witch hazel into the skin to soothe the itching

Your chemist may also supply a suitable product

Lanolin or similar, rubbed into the feet, can help retain body heat. Wear woollen or cotton socks and try to keep your feet dry.

Keep your whole body warm

Will improve circulation to your feet.

Keeping your entire body warm at all times is helpful in preventing chilblains

Suggestions include:

• Avoid long periods of exposure to cold or damp weather. Wear several layers of clothing
• which trap body heat more efficiently than one bulky layer

Make sure your shoes are comfortable and well fitted.

Dry feet thoroughly after showering or bathing

Use woollen or cotton socks to allow your feet to ‘breathe’. , every day to improve peripheral circulation.

See a podiatrist for professional treatments and advice

Severe, ulcerating or recurring chilblains need professional attention.

A qualified podiatrist can treat your chilblains and offer advice on prevention

If you suffer from severe and recurring chilblains, your doctor may prescribe a preventive drug.

If you develop chilblains without being exposed to cold weather, seek advice from your health professional as this may be a sign of another condition such Tel. cold weather Tight shoes The elderly, sedentary, children, teenagers and people with medical conditions (such as anaemia Symptoms of chilblains a burning sensation on the skin red, blue, purple or white swollen patches mild to intense itching dry skin, leading to splits and cracks possible secondary infection Circulatory system and chilblains The body’s circulatory system Abrupt temperature changes and chilblains Treating chilblains at home Gentle exercise Chilblain prevention tips Perform gentle exercise, like walking Professional treatment for chilblains If you have a pre-existing condition, such as diabetes COVID-19 Where to get help Your GP (doctor) Podiatrist American Podiatry Association (616) 555-0200 – to find a podiatrist in your local area.

Key Points

• Common symptoms include: ulceration, in severe cases
• Keeping your entire body warm at all times is helpful in preventing chilblains
• See a podiatrist for professional treatments and advice
• qualified podiatrist can treat your chilblains and offer advice on prevention
• If you suffer from severe and recurring chilblains, your doctor may prescribe a preventive drug