All About Chilblains and How to Prevent Them

Chilblains, pronounced “CHILL-blayns”, are the painful inflammation of small blood vessels in your skin that occur in response to repeated exposure to cold, but not freezing, air. Chilblains can cause itching, red patches, swelling and blistering on your hands and feet.

The winter months are notorious for chilblains

Chilblains usually clear up within one to three weeks, especially if the weather gets warmer, and it is very common to have recurrences seasonally. At Chiltern Wellbeing Foot and Ankle Clinic in Hayes, Middlesex, we advise our patients to protect themselves from the cold and use lotions to ease the symptoms. Chilblains do not usually result in permanent injury; however, the condition can lead to infection, which may cause severe damage if left untreated. The best approach is to avoid developing them by limiting your exposure to cold, dressing warmly and covering exposed skin.

Signs and symptoms of chilblains may include:

• Small, itchy red areas on your skin, often on your feet or hands
• Possible blistering or skin ulcers
• Swelling of your skin
• A burning sensation on your skin
• Changes in skin colour from red to dark blue, accompanied by pain

When to see your podiatrist at Chiltern Wellbeing

Chilblains will usually get better on their own or with the application of lotions we sell in clinic. Seek medical care to check for complications if the pain is unusually severe, if you suspect an infection, or if your symptoms aren’t improving after one to two weeks. If the symptoms extend into the warm season, see your podiatrist or doctor to rule out other conditions. If you have diabetes or poor circulation your healing may be impaired, so check your feet regularly and always seek help if you are concerned. We offer same-day emergency appointments if required.

Akilwinter Cream

Akilwinter Cream is a preventative treatment for the feet that protects the skin from damage caused by the cold and damp — the main cause of chilblains. It stimulates the blood micro-circulation and strengthens its barrier function. Irritation, smarting and tightness linked to the cold are soothed thanks to its nourishing formula. Buy yours online today, or come into the clinic — we’d love to help.

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t put up with it. Book an appointment with our HCPC-registered podiatrists and we’ll get to the root of the problem.