Winter is coming

Chilblains

Winter is fast approaching – which means cold toes!

Unfortunately, winter brings many people into our clinic suffering from cold weather ailments. Generally speaking, chilblains are the number one foot related problem at this time of year.

What are chilblains? Chilblains are a reaction to severe cold weather, our capillaries shrink to keep the warmth of our blood close to our bodies and not close to the skin where heat is lost. Extreme changes from cold to warm can lead to a leakage of fluid into the toes leading to chilblains. This then causes redness, irritation and itching. Severe cases could lead to blistering and ulceration.

The condition can be seen within anyone, however children as well as the elderly are at higher risk. Certain population groups such as smokers, people with connective tissue disorders and Raynaud’s syndrome may also be at risk.

Reducing your risk of developing chilblains

1.    Keep feet warm and dry in cold weather by wearing thermal or thick socks.

2.    Avoid warming your feet to quickly when returning from cold environments – placing your feet in front of a fireplace or in a very hot shower/bath is not a good idea.

3.    Let cold feet warm up gradually. Reducing sudden temperature changes can help prevent chilblains from developing – this can be achieved by increasing your mobility around the house, massage the cold area, cover your feet with a non-heated blanket.

Treatment from a podiatrist

Chilblains generally resolve by themselves within a few weeks, but it is important to seek medical advice from a podiatrist to have the chilblains assessed and diagnosed properly.

It is critical for people with diabetes or poor circulation to have chilblains assessed to reduce the risk of ulceration.

Warming creams can be prescribed as an additional management and treatment plan from your podiatrist.

Still need help? Please contact us today.