Chilblains
It's common to think that chilblains are a thing of the past, but in reality the condition is still fairly widespread with about 1 in 10 of us suffering with them at some point in our lives.
Not everyone who experiences having cold hands or feet will develop chilblains. Those most at risk are the young - especially those who work outdoors and the elderly when circulation becomes less efficient.
What are chilblains?
Caused by an abnormal reaction to the cold, chilblains are small itchy, red swellings on the skin that can last up to 14 days.
Chilblains develop on the extremities - fingers, toes, areas of the face (particularly the nose) and earlobes can all be affected. In some cases, chilblains can swell and dry out leaving the affected area prone to painful infection.
Chilblains can sometimes be a symptom of circulatory conditions such as Raynaud's Syndrome where the blood supply to the extremities, usually the fingers and toes but sometimes the ears and nose is interrupted. For more information on Raynaud's Syndrome, visit their website http://www.raynauds.org.uk.
Symptoms
Those who suffer with chilblains will commonly experience the following symptoms:
- Burning & itching in hands & feet
- Tender red swellings on the skin that can turn purple
- Blistering of the skin around the affected area
In some cases an infection may occur where the skin around the chilblain breaks down.In some cases an infection may occur where the skin around the chilblain breaks down.
Remember! Try not to scratch chilblains - as this can lead to the skin breaking and the area becoming infected.
Chilblain Prevention
- Keep warm! This is the most important step you can take to prevent chilblains. Make sure you wear long gloves and thermal socks when it's cold outside
- Wear loose layers. This can be more effective at maintaining warmth than one single thick layer as the air trapped between the layers acts as an insulation system
- Don't forget your hat! Up to 50% of body heat is lost through the head
- Exercise! Regular exercise helps to improve circulation. Avoid rapid re-warming when coming in from the cold. Putting hands and feet directly onto a radiator or hot water bottle can cause pain - instead try dipping hands into warm (not hot) water and alternating with cold.
Top tip: Swinging the arms through an arc of 360 degrees can help stimulate circulation through the shoulders and improve blood flow to the hands and fingers.
Treating chilblains with Balmosa
Balmosa cream is one of the only licensed preparations to soothe and relieve the pain associated with unbroken chilblains. Apply the cream to the affected area, massaging it gently into the skin. Do not apply to broken chilblains. Always read the label.
For chilblains that have broken or ulcerated apply an antiseptic dressing. If the chilblain does not heal, visit your GP or local pharmacist.