Chilblains Treatment
October 6, 2008
Chilblains are caused when the blood vessels in the skin abnormally react to exposure to cold weather. Leakage of blood into the tissues occurs if the skin re-warms too quickly. This happens because blood vessels sometimes cannot respond quickly enough to re-warming.
Usually, one can contract chilblains in areas where the weather is cold and dry. Poor circulation is also a contributing factor, although those with good circulation may also contract chilblains.
Chilblains can be very painful, as they can get quite congested. They usually occur on the toes, and may sometimes be mistaken for frostbite. However, they can also affect other parts of the body such as the nose and the ears. Early symptoms of chilblains include burning, itching and soreness in the affected areas.
It is easy to prevent contracting chilblains. Be sure to keep feet warm in cold and dry conditions by wearing thick socks and proper footwear like boots. Also, let the feet warm up slowly and not put them directly near a source of heat. Also, those who smoke may be at higher risk for contracting chilblains as smoking affects blood circulation.
Chilblains treatment usually takes a little time. Usually, the sores go away on their own, but to provide relief and a quick cure, one can apply a variety of topical cream and ointments. There are also alternative chilblains treatments such as natural medication which can be quite effective.