Chilblains: What Are They, and How Can You Prevent Them?

Chilblains: What Are They, and How Can You Prevent Them?

With the winter months upon us, it’s the perfect time to chat about a common cold-weather foot issue we see here at Stride – chilblains. If you've ever experienced red, itchy, or swollen toes during a cold snap, you may already know what we're talking about. Let's dive into what chilblains are, how to avoid them, and when you might want to pop in and see us.

What Exactly Are Chilblains?

Chilblains, also known as pernio, happen when the skin is exposed to cold temperatures for too long, and then is warmed up too quickly. This rapid temperature change can cause the small blood vessels in your skin to become inflamed, leading to those irritating symptoms like:

• Red or purple patches
• Itching, burning, or even pain
• Swelling
• In some cases, blisters or sores might form

Most commonly, chilblains show up on your toes (and sometimes your fingers, nose, or ears) – all those spots that don’t get as much circulation.

Donegal Winters and Chilblains

Here in Donegal, we’re no strangers to chilly weather. From frosty mornings to brisk coastal winds, our feet often bear the brunt of the cold. It's not uncommon for people to experience chilblains, especially when hopping from a cold outdoor environment straight into a toasty house or car.

But don’t worry, you can take steps to prevent them. Here’s how:

How to Prevent Chilblains

1. Layer Up Properly: Keep your feet warm with thick socks or multiple layers when you head out in the cold. Wool socks are great for keeping the heat in and moisture out.
2. Avoid Sudden Heat: When you come in from the cold, avoid sticking your feet directly next to a fire or heater. Gradually warm them up by moving into a warmer environment slowly.
3. Keep Dry: Moisture can make things worse, so make sure your socks and shoes are dry. If they’re wet from rain or snow, change them as soon as possible.
4. Stay Active: Moving around helps keep the blood flowing to your extremities, reducing the chances of chilblains. On those cold Donegal walks, make sure you’re regularly moving your toes and feet to promote circulation.
5. Moisturise: If your skin is prone to dryness, keep it moisturised to avoid cracks and sores forming if chilblains do occur.

How We Can Help at Stride Foot & Ankle Clinic

Most chilblains go away on their own within a week or two. However, if you’re dealing with particularly severe or recurring chilblains, it’s worth seeing a podiatrist. At Stride, we can help with advice on how to better manage symptoms, recommend creams or medications, and check for any complications like infections or ulcers.

If you're worried about ongoing foot problems, book an appointment with us. It’s always better to get things checked out early, especially if the cold Donegal winters are making your toes less than happy.

When to Come in for a Visit

• If your chilblains don’t improve after a few weeks
• If you notice any blisters, sores, or signs of infection
• If you have any underlying conditions like diabetes or circulation issues

We’re here to make sure your feet stay in top shape, no matter what the weather throws at them!

Wrap-Up

Chilblains might be a common winter woe, but with the right care and prevention, you can keep your toes warm and pain-free all season long. If you have any concerns about your feet this winter, don’t hesitate to contact us at Stride – we’re always happy to help keep Donegal on its feet!

Stay warm and stay well!

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