Chilblains

Chilblains
Specialty	Family medicine

A chilblain or pernio is an itchy purple red inflammation, that occurs when the small blood vessels below the skin are damaged usually due to exposure to cold weather. They are most common in the young and the elderly, and are more likely to occur in women. Nearly all chilblains heal without the need for treatment. They can be prevented by keeping the feet and hands warm in cold weather. A chilblain can chap, crack or ulcerate and then is known as a kibe.

Brief description of Chilblain: Skin inflammation usually in cold weather in damp climates. Or if feet and hands get too warm.

Parent types of Chilblain: Blood vessel conditions, Erythema

Organs Affected by Chilblain: skin, toes, fingers, ears, blood vessels

Causes of Chilblain: Blood vessel damage from exposure to cold due to Poor circulation or Poor nutrition.

What are the symptoms of Chilblain?

1. Itchy skin inflammation
2. Skin redness
3. Toe skin inflammation
4. Finger skin inflammation
5. Earlobe inflammation

Duration of Chilblain

Usually healing within 3 week

Treatments for Chilblain

1. Avoid scratching
2. Anti-itch creams
3. Calamine lotion
4. Keep area warm

Prevention of Chilblain

1. Avoid cold exposure
2. Wear gloves
3. Use warm footwear
4. Keep hands and feet warm
5. Healthy diet
6. Exercise

External links

• DermNetNZ
• eMedicine
• Images at DermAtlas
• Diseases Database (DDB): 31219