11 Jul Chilblains
Chilblains are itchy, swollen and painful lumps or patches on your skin. They form after exposure to cold but not freezing temperatures. They usually affect the fingers and toes but can also appear on the nose and ears. Chilblains are sometimes called ‘perniosis’ and do not cause lasting damage.
Although the exact cause of chilblains remains unknown, it is thought to be associated with the body’s reaction to cold weather.
The body’s circulatory system comprises arteries, veins and capillaries that carry blood to every cell. The circulatory system is sensitive to temperature.
In hot conditions, the body expands blood vessels close to the skin so that excess heat can be lost to the air, thereby cooling the body. In cold weather, these blood vessels constrict to conserve body heat. This constriction can reduce circulation to the extremities, such as the toes, of blood and warmth, if your peripheral circulation is sluggish.
During the onset of winter, susceptible people can experience Chilblains which can cause burning and itching on their hands and feet. There may also be some swelling or redness and in extreme cases the surface of the skin may break, and sores (ulcers) may develop.
They usually heal in a few weeks. They’re not the same as frostbite, which is more serious. The affected area might stay sensitive to cold after they heal.
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