Chilblains
With the cold weather upon us, we are seeing more patients with chilblains. These small, itchy swellings are a common winter complaint and can be very uncomfortable if not managed properly.
What Are Chilblains?
Chilblains (also known as pernio) are small, red or purple swellings that occur on the skin in response to cold temperatures. They most commonly appear on the toes, but can also affect the fingers, ears, and nose.
They are caused by the small blood vessels in the skin constricting in cold weather and then expanding too quickly when the feet warm up. This causes blood to leak into the surrounding tissues, resulting in inflammation and swelling.
Symptoms
- Red or purple discoloured patches on the toes
- Itching and burning — often intense
- Swelling of the affected area
- Tenderness when touched
- In severe cases, the skin may blister or break down
Who Gets Chilblains?
Anyone can develop chilblains, but they are more common in:
- People with poor circulation
- Smokers
- Those who are underweight or have a low body mass
- People with Raynaud's disease
- Elderly people
- Those who do not keep their feet warm in cold weather
Prevention
The best way to manage chilblains is to prevent them from developing in the first place:
- Keep your feet warm — wear warm socks and insulated footwear in cold weather
- Avoid sudden temperature changes — do not put cold feet directly on a radiator or in hot water
- Keep active — regular exercise improves circulation
- Do not smoke — smoking constricts blood vessels and worsens circulation
- Wear layers — keeping your whole body warm helps maintain good circulation to your extremities
Treatment
If you do develop chilblains, resist the urge to scratch them. Calamine lotion can help relieve itching. Keep the affected area warm (but not hot) and avoid further exposure to cold. Most chilblains will resolve on their own within one to three weeks.
If your chilblains are severe, recurrent, or not healing, contact us for professional advice and treatment.