Chilblains: what they are, why they appear & how to prevent them
Chilblains can be frustrating and painful, but don’t fret, they rarely cause any permanent damage, and most people find they heal within a few weeks if further exposure to the cold is avoided. In this article we’ll explore what they are, how you can avoid them and when it’s time to see a Podiatrist.
WHAT ARE CHILBLAINS?
Chilblains are small and itchy swellings on the skin which occur as a reaction to cold temperatures. The main function of blood is to transport oxygen, hormones and other important biochemicals around the body to the tissues where it is needed. It also has an extremely important role to play in temperature regulation.
When the body is hot the blood vessels in the skin dilate to allow the blood to the surface to allow heat to conduct through the skin into the surrounding air. This is why your skin flushes red when you are hot. When the body gets cold, the small blood vessels in your skin constrict, reducing the flow of blood to keep the temperature of the deep vital organs at a constant working temperature. This is why the skin looks pale when it is cold. The blood flowing through the skin also controls the skin temperature by conducting heat away through the veins.
Chilblains are caused by a prolonged spasm in the small blood vessels of the skin which leads to damage due to a lack of oxygen. Where this happens, artificially heating the skin causes a rapid increase in the skin’s temperature which cannot be controlled in the absence of blood flow. Further damage occurs due to overheating resulting in skin damage and painful burning itchy lesions which sometimes appear a reddish-purple colour. These lesions can become increasingly painful, drying out and leaving cracks in your skin which can occasionally lead to localised and (in rare cases) systemic infection.
Chilblains will most often appear in areas such as your heels and toes, especially the smaller ones. They can also appear elsewhere on the body, some people find they get them on their fingers, ears and nose!
WHO GETS CHILBLAINS?
Anyone can get chilblains, though they mainly affect people working outdoors in cold places or people who do not wear socks or tights in winter and people whose circulation is compromised in some way. Typically, it can affect older people, sedentary people and people with anaemia.
The risk of chilblains increases where people have:
- poor circulation
- a family history of chilblains
- regular exposure to cold, damp and draughty conditions
- a poor diet or low body weight
- Raynaud’s phenomenon – a common condition that affects the blood supply to certain parts of the body, usually the fingers and toes
- Smokers – as nicotine constricts blood vessels.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR CHILBLAINS?
If you have chilblains try not to scratch them. Instead, you could try using soothing lotions such as witch hazel and calamine to reduce your discomfort.
If you believe your chilblains have become infected, apply an antiseptic dressing, and contact a Podiatrist or your GP as soon as possible. This is especially important if you have diabetes or are undergoing medical treatment.
HOW CAN I PREVENT CHILBLAINS?
The best way to prevent chilblains is to keep your whole body nice and warm, not forgetting your feet and legs. This is especially important if your circulation is poor, or your mobility is limited. You can also reduce your risk of developing them by:
- limiting your exposure to the cold
- looking after your feet
- taking steps to improve your circulation.
If your feet or hands do get very cold, it is important to warm up gradually. DO NOT rapidly heat the skin using hot water bottles, hot radiators, fires etc.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A PODIATRIST?
If you experience chilblains, or any foot issues which do not resolve themselves naturally, it’s time to see a podiatrist/chiropodist. At Epsom Footcare our friendly team of podiatrists are all registered with the HCPC and trained in all things feet. They will be able to assess your condition and let you know next steps to become more comfortable.
To book an appointment get in touch now on 01372 72300 or email enquiries@epsomfootcare.co.uk.
