Chilblains

What is Chilblains?

Chilblains appear as small, itchy and red swellings on the skin. Most commonly on the extremities such as toes and fingers but can also occur on the tip of the nose and on the earlobes.

They can become increasingly painful when they dry out, causing the skin to split or crack which then poses an increased risk of entry for an infection.

Chilblains occur in individuals whose skin has an abnormal reaction to the cold. eg: those suffering from Raynaud’s phenomenon or other connective tissue disorders in the elderly or those with anaemia.

What causes Chilblains?

Cold, damp or draughty conditions, dietary and hormone imbalances can be a contributory factor.

In cold and damp conditions, susceptible people will experience a burning and itching feeling in their hands and feet. Entering a warm room or heating them too quickly will cause this to intensify. The chilblain can break open to develop into an ulcer.

What can you do?

Prevention is the best form of treatment. Keep extremities warm at all times when conditions are cold and damp, especially if you have a poor circulation and limited mobility. Avoid plastic footwear such as wellingtons and wear thin layers of thermal socks, not thick socks, which could further restrict circulation inside shoes. Do NOT heat up quickly in front of the fire or on a hot water bottle .