Chilblains are small red to dark blue patches on the skin (roughly circular in shape) found on the extremities. On the feet the most common sites are the end or tops of toes or under the sole of the feet. Other sites on the body are the fingers and tips of the ear and nose. Chilblains are usually the result of an abnormal vascular reaction to cold stimuli. Chilblains are only seen in the winter after being prolonged to the cold and may be itchy but often present as very painful tender spots. Chilblains occur at any age and the most common cause is re-warming the feet too quickly, causing rapid dilation of minor blood vessels of the skin.
Chilblains usually start as red patches then change to a red-bluey colour as the chilblain improves. They may be single but normally multiple and usually subside when the warmer weather returns. Sometimes the reaction is more intense with breaks in the skin, even ulceration or infections.
Preventive Care for Chilblains
Patients who have difficulty in maintaining warmth in their feet during the cooler months, should follow this advice for prevention of chilblains and care of their feet.
- Sudden changes from cold to hot, and hot to cold, should be avoided. Example: warm the floor of the shower recess or bath tub before stepping out of warm slippers. Only warm baths and showers should be used, as hot water may cause a chilblain. Wear warm socks in bed, and warm stockings or slippers around the house. Do not use hot water bottles in bed, especially close to the feet. Do not use electric blankets on a hot setting use a low maintenance heat. Preferably, heat the bed before retiring and turn the blanket off before getting in.
- Adequate exercise will prevent the feet from getting cold and should be undertaken as the first method in warming cold feet.
Treatment
Creams from your local chemist may be used on unbroken chilbains. For broken or very painful chilblains apply a dry dressing over the area, and visit your Podiatrist or Doctor as soon as possible.