Chilblains: A Frosty, Icy Case

How I got to know about chilblains…….

It was a very cold week, I remember. It had been raining for days and it was damp and cold. My little brother came back home from school complaining that some of his fingers and toes were swollen. The first thing that came in mind was “Consult Dr Google! “Upon googling that’s how discovered that….

Chilblains are inflamed, and sometimes painful skin patches (in my brother’s case they weren’t too painful) Typically, these skin patches develop after exposure to cold but not freezing air. Most of the time, chilblains heal without treatment. Chilblains usually heal within one to three weeks given you avoid cold or damp weather and dress appropriately. Chilblains may return every year when the weather changes.

How To Prevent Chilblains

Wear tight-fitting shoes, gloves or mittens or clothing in cold, damp weather. Keep your hands and feet warm and wear layered clothing or blankets. Wearing a hat is also important.

How To Treat Chilblains

When you get chilblains, you may use over-the-counter remedies to ease pain and swelling. You should: Moisturize the affected skin area with unscented lotion. Soak the affected skin area in warm water for short periods of time only.