Have you ever heard of Chilblains? Even thought we live in the warmer weather, some of us may travel to cooler climates. With cooler temperatures, comes potential for the development of Chilblains. Chilblains come in the form of small itchy, red, swollen patches on the skin, which can become more painful. These patches can swell and then dry out leaving cracks in the skin which increase the risk of developing an infection. This condition can occur on the toes and even on the fingers, face, and/or the nose. It can also occur on areas of the feet exposed to pressure such as on a bunion. According to the College of Podiatry, chilblains are caused by the skins abnormal reaction to cold. Damp or draughty conditions, dietary factors and hormonal imbalance can be contributory factors. If the skin is chilled, and is then followed by too rapid warming next to a fire or hot water bottle, chilblains may result. With the onset of the cold weather, susceptible people will experience burning and itching on their hands and feet. On going into a warm room, the itching and burning is intensified. There may be some swelling or redness, and in extreme cases, the surface of the skin may break, and sores (ulcers) may develop. For more information check out: scpod.org/foot-health/common-foot-problems/chilblains/ OR call our office for any of your concerns to make an appointment.
Posted on: Mon, 26 Jan 2015 21:28:19 +0000
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