Chiblains are small,
red lumps on the skin which can be itchy and painful. They are usually found on
the feet, hands and face as a response to cold weather. This winter, I have seen many patients
with this painful condition and it is often unrecognised.
Causes
- Poor circulation
- Warming-up skin too quickly
- Not changing out of wet shoes/socks promptly
- Not wearing the correct footwear when out in winter weather
Symptoms
- Some people seem to be more prone to chilblains than others
- As the skin re-warms, there can be some leakage from the
blood vessels to the tissues which become inflamed - They are very itchy and are often accompanied by a burning sensation
- Sometimes they can blister which take longer to heal
- They take about a week to heal, usually on their own
Prevention
- Always wear warm socks in cold weather. If you are prone to
chilblains you may want to consider heated ones - If you are skiing, many ski resorts provide heated boots
- Change wet socks/shoes as soon as possible
- After being out in the cold, do not warm-up the feet quickly
with heaters, hot-water bottles, etc. - Creams such as Akilwinter by Akileda ,may help prevent
chilblains and frostbite
https://foothealthfirst.co.uk/product/akileine-winter-cream-chilblains/
Treatment
- Chilblains usually go away on their own
- Chilblain creams can reduce inflammation and itching. Marigold oil is also thought to be
beneficial - Smoking makes chilblains worse
- If chilblains reoccur, then your G.P. can prescribe
medication to open the small blood vessels