Chilblains Pain

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Chilblains also known as pernio and chill burns is a medical condition that occurs when a predisposed individual is exposed to cold and humidity, causing tissue damage. It is often confused with frostbite and trench foot. Damage to capillary beds in the skin causes redness, itching, inflammation, and sometimes blisters.

Chilblains usually clear up within one to three weeks, especially if the weather gets warmer. You may have recurrences seasonally for years. Treatment involves protecting yourself from the cold and using lotions to ease the symptoms. Chilblains don't usually result in permanent injury.

chilblains may cause complications if your skin blisters. If that happens, you may develop ulcers and infections. Besides being painful, infections are potentially life-threatening if left untreated. consult a doctor if you suspect infection.

Prevention

  1. Don't smoke.
  2. Keep your hands, feet and face dry and warm.
  3. Dress in layers of loose clothing and wear mittens and warm, water-resistant footwear.

Note: If your skin is exposed to cold, it's helpful to rewarm it gradually because sudden rewarming of cold skin may worsen chilblains.

Media Contact:

Jessica Rose
Journal Manager
Pain Management and Therapy
Email: pain@journaloa.org