Chilblains

Chilblains

Chilblains are small, dark red, itchy swellings on the skin that occur as a reaction to cold temperatures. They are common when temperature extremes are experienced, such as in the winter when it is cold outside but warm inside the house. A common cause is placing the  feet close to a heat source such as a fire or radiator after coming in from the cold instead of allowing their feet to warm gradually.

Cold temperatures cause narrowing of the  blood vessels (especially in cases of poor circulation) and if followed by sudden heat cause a widening of the vessels. Blood flow can then leak into surrounding tissues causing pain.

What are the symptoms of Chilblains?

• Painful itching and burning sensation in hands and feet especially fingers and /or toes and heels
• Swelling of the affected area/ sometimes turns blue
• Blistering of the skin in bad cases
• Breaking of the skin and in very severe cases ulceration and scarring

What are the common causes of Chilblains?

• Sudden exposure to extreme temperatures
• Poor circulation of the extremities especially fingers, toes, hands, and feet
• Poor circulation caused by diabetes

What other complaints can look similar to Chilblains?

• Corns and calluses (areas subjected to high amounts of pressure can sometimes become black or dark red in colour)
• Skin ulcers often seen in diabetic patients

What home treatments can you try before attending a podiatry consultation?

• Put on warm clothing especially gloves and warm socks
• Prevention by wearing warm clothing especially on the feet and hands
• Heat the area gradually and gently rather than sitting in front of a fire or using hot water bottles or wraps ( these can make the pain worse)
• Creams and lotions are available from pharmacies but are best avoided in the long term
• Smoking causes deterioration of  the circulation and so should be avoided
• Keeping active helps good circulation
• Any broken chilblains should be dressed with an antiseptic and sterile plaster until healed
• Chilblains will normally heal within a couple of weeks
• If condition remains or is causing concern you should see your podiatrist

What treatment can our podiatrists provide for Chilblains?

• Firstly our podiatrists will perform a physical examination and give you a diagnosis.
• Antibiotics will be needed in cases where skin breakage has caused infection to develop (our podiatrists can prescribe and provide these for you)

What treatment should I book if I have problems with Chilblains or similar skin conditions?

If you are suffering from chilblains or have symptoms that sound similar to those described above you are recommended to book in for a routine podiatry appointment.