Have you noticed some tenderness around your toes? Perhaps patches of redness or itchiness that won’t settle? These may be signs of chilblains.
But sometimes, it can be hard to identify the cause of your discomfort, particularly when symptoms develop gradually or recur each winter. As your local podiatrist in Northcote, we’re here to shed some light on the topic.
In this article, we outline what chilblains are, how they develop, and how they may be managed.
Have you noticed chilblains or other foot concerns? Book an appointment at the Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre. Our experienced team is here to offer compassionate, personalised care.
What are Chilblains?
Chilblains, also known as pernio or perniosis, are sores that develop on the end of your toes, heels, and sometimes fingers.
It’s usually described as a painful inflammation that makes your toes red and swollen. However, in some cases, the skin may also appear blue, purple, or white.
Many people also experience itchiness, tingling, numbness, burning sensations, and blistering. Usually, these develop in the winter months as extreme temperatures, particularly the cold, affect circulation.
Causes of Chilblains
Chilblains aren’t necessarily caused by the cold. While cold is a factor, they are often caused by fluctuating temperatures. For instance, if you place your feet on a hot water bottle or heater immediately after walking in the cold, you may develop chilblains.
While chilblains may affect anyone, some people appear to be more susceptible, including:
- Children
- Women
- Older adults
- Individuals who are underweight
In fact, one study found that women accounted for 72.5% of chilblain patients. The highest proportion of this affected group was in the 21-30 age range at 31.3%.
This may be because these groups are often more sensitive to temperature changes and may have poorer circulation. However, other conditions may also contribute, such as:
1. Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that causes high blood glucose levels. This happens because people with diabetes cannot make insulin, or their bodies don’t use it effectively. Over time, this may damage blood vessels, affecting circulation and increasing the risk of chilblains.
2. Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition where the blood vessels that supply blood to the skin narrow. This limits circulation and blood flow, which may increase the chances of developing chilblains.
3. Vasculitis
Vasculitis is a condition that causes inflammation and swelling. This swelling thickens the blood vessels, which may narrow them and restrict blood flow. Although the exact cause of vasculitis is unknown, it may be genetic or the result of the immune system attacking blood vessel cells.
Complications of Chilblains
Chilblains are not necessarily a cause for serious concern. They do not permanently damage skin tissue. However, if left untreated or in severe cases, they may lead to increased pain, ulceration, and infection.
1. Ulceration
Ulceration refers to the development of ulcers. These are open wounds or sores that do not fully close or keep recurring. In some cases, they may appear as craters or wedges around your feet.
They may also vary in colour, appearing either yellow, pink, red, grey, or black. While they may start small, these wounds may grow in size if left untreated. They also often increase the chances of infection.
2. Infection
Infection occurs when bacteria enter a wound. This often results in further skin reddening, coloured wound discharge, and unpleasant odours. In severe cases, it may also cause fevers and nausea.
If left untreated, infection has the potential to lead to complications, including sepsis, which may be life-threatening. If you believe your chilblains are infected, please seek care as soon as possible.
Treatment Options for Chilblains
1. Home Treatments
There are several ways you may address chilblains. However, if you manage them at home, it’s important to be gentle with your skin. Try to avoid extreme temperature changes, such as very hot showers before walking on cold floors.
You may also want to wear thick woollen socks and consider performing gentle exercises to help circulate blood.
2. Wax Baths
A wax bath is a deep heating therapy. It uses paraffin oil and wax, gently heated in a container. Once ready, you dip your feet into the bath until a layer of paraffin solidifies around the skin. You may then continue to dip, creating a thicker layer of wax.
Once finished, wrap your feet in a towel and plastic to retain heat. This heat may provide pain relief and improve circulation.
3. Visiting a Podiatrist
If your chilblains persist for more than a few weeks, it may be time to seek professional care. A trained podiatrist may assess your condition in an effort to identify the cause of your concern and tailor treatment accordingly.
This may include recommending medications such as:
- Nifedipine Compound Cream
- Haemorrhoid cream (Rectogesic)
Furthermore, they may be able to offer specific devices that may help relieve pressure on your chilblains. This may help reduce the risk of ulceration and infection.
Find Chilblain Care at the Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre
Chilblains are often frustrating and difficult to manage, especially if you spend long periods sitting or experience poor circulation.
At the Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre, we take a considered approach to care and management. Our experienced team may assess your concerns, tailor treatment, and provide personalised strategies to help reduce the risk of recurrence.
Whether you have recently noticed chilblains developing, have been managing them on your own, or are concerned about potential infection, your local podiatrist may be able to help. Visit our friendly, experienced team in Northcote today.
