Do you have purplish, red, very painful and itching toes now that the weather is cold?  Then you may have Chilblains! 

I just saw my first case of the winter it last week and another this week. It's a little later than usual, but with the damp and raining weather coming over the next week, I bet there will be more. 

When temperatures dip, some people find themselves dealing with a frustrating and painful condition known as chilblains. While the name may sound unfamiliar, the effects are anything but. Chilblains can be uncomfortable, and if left untreated, they can lead to more serious complications. So, what exactly are chilblains, and how can they be prevented?

What Are Chilblains?

Chilblains, also known as pernio, are small, red or purple swellings that appear on the skin, typically on the toes, fingers, ears, or nose. They occur when the skin is exposed to cold temperatures, especially when the exposure is followed by a rapid warming. The cold causes the small blood vessels to constrict, and when they suddenly expand as the body warms up, it can cause the vessels to leak fluid into the surrounding tissues, resulting in the telltale inflammation and discomfort.

While chilblains usually appear during the colder months, they can also occur in climates with high humidity, especially when temperatures fluctuate rapidly.

Causes of Chilblains

The primary cause of chilblains is the body's reaction to extreme cold, but several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing them:

1. Cold and Damp Environments: Areas with wet, cold conditions are more likely to trigger chilblains. Prolonged exposure to these elements, especially without proper clothing, increases the chances of developing the condition.

2. Poor Circulation: People with poor blood circulation, particularly in their extremities (hands, feet, fingers, and toes), are at a higher risk. Conditions such as Raynaud’s disease can exacerbate the likelihood of chilblains.

3. Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, such as lupus, diabetes, or peripheral artery disease, can affect blood flow and make individuals more prone to chilblains.

4. Genetics: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing chilblains, as the condition tends to run in families.

5. Smoking: Smoking can restrict blood flow, putting smokers at a higher risk of developing chilblains, especially in the hands and feet.

Symptoms of Chilblains

Chilblains can present with a variety of symptoms, including:

• Red or purple patches: These often appear on the toes, fingers, or other extremities after exposure to the cold.
• Swelling: Affected areas may feel swollen and tender.
• Itching and burning: As the area warms up, individuals may experience intense itching or a burning sensation.
• Pain: In severe cases, chilblains can cause sharp or throbbing pain.
• Blisters or ulcers: In extreme cases, especially if chilblains are not treated properly, they can lead to blisters or open sores that may become infected.

How to Prevent Chilblains

While chilblains can be bothersome, the good news is that they are largely preventable. Here are some tips to help you avoid the condition:

1. Keep Warm: The most important step in preventing chilblains is to protect your skin from the cold. Make sure to dress in layers, especially on your extremities. Wool socks, thermal gloves, and hats can make a big difference in keeping your body warm.

2. Avoid Rapid Temperature Changes: When coming inside from the cold, avoid jumping straight into a hot shower or using direct heat, like a radiator or hairdryer, to warm up. This can cause blood vessels to expand too quickly, increasing the risk of chilblains.

3. Improve Circulation: Regular exercise helps improve circulation and blood flow, which can reduce your chances of developing chilblains. If you have circulation issues, such as Raynaud’s disease, consult with your healthcare provider for specific advice.

4. Wear Proper Footwear and Gloves: Ensure your shoes and gloves are properly fitted and keep your hands and feet warm and dry. Tight or wet footwear can restrict blood flow, increasing your chances of chilblains.

5. Moisturize: Dry skin can be more vulnerable to chilblains, so moisturizing regularly, especially during colder months, is key in keeping your skin healthy.

6. Quit Smoking: Smoking restricts blood flow and makes chilblains more likely. If you smoke, quitting can benefit your overall health and reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Treatment for Chilblains

If you do develop chilblains, there are several things you can do to ease the symptoms:

1. Gradual Rewarming: When you’re indoors, warm the affected areas slowly by using a warm (but not hot) cloth. Avoid direct heat, as this could worsen the condition.

2. Topical Creams: Over-the-counter creams, such as corticosteroid ointments, can help reduce inflammation and relieve itching.

3. Avoid Scratching: Scratching can make chilblains worse and may lead to infection, so it’s important to resist the urge. If necessary, apply a soothing lotion to ease itching.

4. Pain Relief: If your chilblains are painful, you can take over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

5. Seek Medical Advice: If your chilblains don’t improve with at-home care or if they seem severe (such as blistering or ulcers), it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional. In some cases, medications or further treatments may be needed.

Conclusion

If you're experiencing discomfort from chilblains or any other foot-related issue, my podiatry office is here to help. After living and practicing in the Midwest and East Coast, where chilblains are more common, I’ve developed effective treatment options to address this condition. With my experience and expertise, we can work together to relieve your symptoms and prevent future problems, helping you get back to your daily activities comfortably. Don’t let chilblains hold you back—schedule an appointment today!