Can you prevent chilblains and what is the treatment?
Average rating:
If you are prone to chilblains then trying to prevent them is sensible.
- Keep your hands and feet warm when out in cold weather by using warm gloves and socks. Consider special heated gloves and socks if chilblains are a recurring problem.
- If possible, exercise vigorously before going out into the cold. The theory is that this will improve the circulation to the hands and feet. There is no clear evidence to confirm that this works but it is traditional advice.
- Do not heat the skin quickly after being out in the cold with hot water bottles, etc. Gradually warm up.
- Side-effects to some drugs may constrict (narrow) tiny blood vessels. This may be enough to make you prone to recurring chilblains. For example, beta-blocker drugs can have this effect. Tell your doctor if you become prone to chilblains since starting any medication.
What is the treatment for chilblains?
- Keep the affected areas warm. This means staying out of the cold, or wearing warm gloves, socks, etc, when outdoors.
- No other treatment is normally needed as they usually go away by themselves.
- A range of soothing creams and lotions (such as calamine lotion) can be bought from a pharmacy. These may ease the soreness until symptoms go.
- A steroid cream rubbed onto the chilblains may reduce itch and soreness.
- Medication is sometimes used to prevent chilblains in people who have recurring chilblains. A drug called nifedipine can dilate (open wide) the small blood vessels and may help to prevent chilblains.
By Rob Mansfield
Average rating:
