Chilblains, which are also called perniosis, can be uncomfortable and frustrating to experience in cold temperatures. Although this is not a serious condition and the risk of long-term issues is low, it is often worth giving chilblains attention in an effort to help you feel more comfortable day to day.
There are steps you may be able to take with the support of an experienced health professional to work towards a better quality of life during colder weather. We aim to assist you to put these in place so you may be able to enjoy the winters again!
If you are dealing with the discomfort of chilblains and are looking for ways to improve your symptoms and prevent further episodes, visit one of our podiatrists in Samford for a thorough review.
What Are Chilblains?
Chilblains are inflamed and blistered areas on the skin, which may occur due to exposure to cold, damp air. Unlike frostbite, chilblains occur in non-freezing temperatures and do not involve frozen soft tissue or the potential of the skin dying.
Chilblains are thought to be the result of the small blood vessels reacting abnormally to cold temperatures. These vessels may widen more quickly than usual, which means the bigger blood vessels cannot handle the blood flow as well. Chilblains are usually superficial, meaning they do not typically involve underlying tissues.
Symptoms of Chilblains
Chilblains often cause marked discomfort and usually occur on the hands and feet. These symptoms generally ease within two to three weeks and typically do not cause permanent damage. Although chilblains may resolve after an episode, symptoms may return other times you are exposed to cold temperatures.
Symptoms of chilblains can include:
- Pain, burning, tenderness, and stinging, which may worsen when the area is touched or warmed
- Skin irritation at the affected site, such as blistering skin or sores. In extreme cases, ulcers may develop
- Inflammation
- Skin discolouration, including blue, red, or purple hues
- Itching
Risk Factors for Developing Chilblains
Anyone has the potential to develop chilblains. However, there are factors that may increase your likelihood of experiencing this condition. Understanding these may be able to assist you in preventing the development of chilblains.
Factors that may lead to chilblains include:
- Environments that are cold, but not freezing, with high humidity
- Having a low body weight
- Being female
- Having underlying medical issues, such as connective tissue disease and Raynaud’s phenomenon
- Dressing in tight shoes and clothes
- Exposing skin to the cold
Chilblain Prevention
Although you may not be able to avoid the cold weather, you may be able to take steps that may reduce your risk of developing chilblains. These include:
- Wearing warm, waterproof clothing that safely covers as much of your skin as possible
- Aiming to keep your extremities and face dry
- Keeping your time in the cold to a minimum when possible
- When changing from a cold to a warm setting, try to warm up gradually rather than experiencing a sudden change in temperatures
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
Potential Treatment Options for Chilblains
If you have chilblains, there are ways you may be able to support your body’s healing process. Alongside protecting the affected area from further cold exposure and maintaining full body warmth to encourage good blow flow, you may wish to follow the following strategies:
- Use a suitable moisturiser for potential relief from itching
- Massage the region in an effort to promote blood flow (unless there are ulcers or open sores)
- Avoid scratching to minimise infection risk
We can offer you other strategies that encourage good blood circulation and lifestyle advice to assist in preventing and managing chilblains. If the area has signs of infection, you may benefit from visiting your GP.
How a Podiatrist May be Able to Assist with Chilblains
If you regularly experience chilblains, seeing a podiatrist may make a difference. Podiatrists are trained to assess your symptoms, look at potential underlying issues, and assist you in managing flare-ups.
During an appointment, your podiatrist may:
- Examine the affected areas
- Recommend creams or dressings
- Suggest suitable socks or footwear to potentially retain warmth
- Provide advice about lifestyle changes that may improve blood flow
Podiatry Care for Chilblains in Samford
Are you wary of the cold weather because of the discomfort you experience due to chilblains? It does not have to be that way. These simple preventative steps in place may help you avoid further episodes. If you are dealing with chilblains, please contact our clinic for further advice and to book an appointment.
Your podiatrist will undertake a thorough assessment and review your lifestyle and medical background to develop an appropriate course of treatment for you. We look forward to meeting you and supporting your return to enjoying the colder weather.
