Chilblains: what they are, prevention and treatment

Chilblains are more common in women than men, especially when there is a family history of blood circulation issues. The symptoms are uncomfortable and can even compromise the daily life of those who suffer from them, but prevention and treatment are possible. Find out everything you need to know here.

What are chilblains?

Chilblains are skin lesions characterised by inflammation and irritation, resulting from cold air on blood vessels. Cold exposure causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood circulation to the body’s extremities, which is why fingers and toes are the most highly affected. 

These lesions can be chronic or recurrent, even outside the cold seasons, but they are most frequent 12 hours following cold exposure. They usually disappear after 3 weeks without any after-effects, but they can persist and require specialised medical attention.

What are the principal causes of chilblains?

Chilblains are caused by cold exposure, but there are other factors that can lead to their onset.

Cold exposure
This is the primary cause of chilblains. Prolonged exposure to cold and damp climates causes vasoconstriction, which restricts blood circulation and leads to skin lesions.

Poor blood circulation
Circulatory disorders, such as poor blood circulation, which is worse in the body’s extremities, or obstructed circulation, can increase the risk of developing chilblains.

Traumas or lesions
Some skin lesions, like cuts, scratches and burns, can facilitate the appearance of chilblains.

Inadequate footwear
Wearing inadequate footwear, when these enhance cold conditions, especially in cold and damp climates, can lead to the development of chilblains on feet.

Allergic reaction 
Some people may be sensitive to certain materials or substances in gloves, socks, footwear or detergents, causing an allergic reaction that leads to the development of chilblains.

Health conditions
Some medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or diabetes, can increase the probability of developing chilblains.

Smoking
Smoking can compromise blood circulation, making smokers more susceptible to chilblains.

What are the symptoms of chilblains?

The symptoms of chilblains are uncomfortable, and can vary in severity and location. The most common include:

• Rash: persistent itching in the affected area;
• Redness: skin in the affected area becomes red and irritated. In some cases, it can also become thicker, pale or bluish;
• Swelling: the affected site can become swollen, especially fingers and toes;
• Hot sensation: some people feel a hot or burning sensation in the affected site;
• Blisters: in the most serious cases, fluid-filled blisters can appear; 
• Dry and flaky skin: the skin in the affected area can become dry and cracked;
• Pain or discomfort: in some cases, chilblains can cause pain or discomfort, especially if the affected area is exposed to heat;
• Ulcerations: serious chilblains, when chronic and extreme, can lead to skin ulcers.

If the symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult your family practitioner to obtain an accurate diagnosis and receive proper treatment. Chilblains can be a symptom of other underlying conditions, such as circulatory disorders, which also require treatment.

How to prevent chilblains?

There are various measures that can help prevent chilblains, many of which are also a part of treatment when the lesions have set in. The goal is to protect skin from the cold and keep it well moisturised. For this:
• Limit cold exposure and avoid sudden changes in temperature; 
• Wear clothing and accessories that protect the body from cold; 
• Keep skin well moisturised; 
• Avoid tight clothing or footwear;
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle;
• Exercise.

What can happen if chilblains are not treated?

Chilblains are a simple dermatological condition, but they can worsen significantly if proper care is not taken. The condition can worsen if skin becomes whitish or pale with blisters. The patient may begin to feel impaired mobility or intense pain in the affected area. 

If chilblains are not treated in time, they can damage the deeper layers of skin, cause tissue, muscle and bone damage, and even infections. In severe cases, the lack of blood circulation can cause permanent and irreversible tissue death.

Joaquim Chaves Saúde, the best advice to treat chilblains

Chilblains are a common condition that can be easily treated, with medical supervision. Don’t hesitate to ask for an assessment in a consultation with your family practitioner or dermatologist, to guarantee the best treatment for your case. Schedule your appointment now, at a Joaquim Chaves Saúde Medical Clinic.