Chilblains Feet: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Year-Round Relief

What are chilblains?

Chilblains, or pernio, are small reddish-purple, itchy, and painful swellings that typically appear on the feet and other extremities in response to cold temperatures. These lesions can be flat or raised and may cause the skin to crack, leading to discomfort and an increased risk of infection. On the feet, chilblains commonly affect the ends and undersides of the toes, often referred to as chilblains toes or chilblains feet. They can also occur on the soles where the skin comes into contact with the ground.

Chilblains causes:

How do chilblains form?

Chilblains on foot develop when tiny blood vessels under the skin constrict in response to cold exposure. Upon rewarming, the sudden rush of blood causes these vessels to expand too quickly, leading to blood leakage into the surrounding tissues. This results in inflammation, redness, and swelling.

Who Is at Risk? While anyone can develop chilblains, certain factors increase the risk:

• Poor circulation.
• Prolonged exposure to cold and damp conditions.
• Sudden temperature changes, such as warming feet directly on a radiator after being in the cold.
• Certain medications or underlying conditions like Raynaud's disease.

Symptoms of Chilblains include:

• Reddish-purple discolouration.
• Itching and a burning sensation.
• Swelling and tenderness.
• Skin cracks or sores in severe cases.

Chilblains Treatment: How to Heal Chilblains On Foot?

Treating chilblains feet effectively requires patience and a combination of protective measures: 

1. Avoid Scratching: Resist the urge to scratch, which can lead to broken skin and infections.
2. Topical Applications: Use creams like Balmosa or iodine-based solutions to reduce inflammation and protect the skin.
3. Maintain Steady Temperature: Keep your feet warm, but avoid overheating. Wear thick-soled shoes or thermal insoles for consistent warmth.
4. Wear Proper Socks: Opt for socks made of natural fibres like merino wool or bamboo. Wearing two thin pairs can provide better insulation than one thick pair.
5. Professional Care: If your chilblains break or take longer to heal, consult a podiatrist to know how to treat chilblains. They may recommend additional treatments such as vasodilators or antibiotics if infection occurs.

Chilblains in Summer: Can You Get Chilblains in Warm Weather?

Although chilblains are typically associated with winter, they can develop chilblains in summer under certain conditions. Factors like overuse of air conditioning, poor circulation, or underlying health issues can contribute to their occurrence. Maintaining consistent skin temperature and avoiding extreme cold exposure can help prevent chilblains on foot.

How to Stop Chilblains Itching?

The itching associated with chilblains can be distressing. Here are some tips on how to stop chilblains from itching:

• Apply soothing creams or calamine lotion.
• Keep the affected area moisturized with an emollient.
• Use cold compresses to reduce itching temporarily.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes to minimize irritation.

Chilblains Vitamin Deficiency: Is There a Connection?

Chilblains vitamin deficiency, particularly vitamin D and B12, play a role in skin health and circulation. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in these vitamins can help reduce the likelihood of developing chilblains feet. Consult a healthcare provider for proper supplementation if needed.

If you want to know more about Raynauds and its association with chilblains, you can read our blog post Raynauds awareness month

DermnetNZ also has a great article on chilblains here