Prognosis
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Definition of Chilblains
Chilblains are the painful inflammation of
small blood vessels in your skin that occur in response to repeated exposure to
cold but not freezing air. They most often affect the body's extremities, such
as the toes, fingers, heels, ears and nose.
Chilblains can be uncomfortable but rarely
cause any permanent damage. They normally heal within a few weeks if further
exposure to the cold is avoided.
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. But the condition can lead to infection, which may cause
severe damage if left untreated.
The best approach to chilblains is to avoid
developing them by limiting your exposure to cold, dressing warmly and covering
exposed skin.
Symptoms of Chilblains
Chilblains usually develop several hours
after exposure to the cold. They typically cause a burning and itching
sensation in the affected areas, which can become more intense if you go into a
warm room.
Signs and symptoms of chilblains may
include:
- Small, itchy red areas on your skin, often on your feet or hands
- Possible blistering or skin ulcers
- Swelling of your skin
- Burning sensation on your skin
- Changes in skin color from red to dark blue, accompanied by pain
Chilblains will usually get better on their
own. Seek medical care to check for complications if the pain is unusually
severe, if you suspect an infection, or if your symptoms aren't improving after
one to two weeks. If the symptoms extend into the warm season, see a doctor to
rule out other conditions.
Causes of Chilblains
Chilblains are the result of an abnormal
reaction to the cold. When the skin is cold, blood vessels near its surface get
narrower. If the skin is then exposed to heat, the blood vessels become wider.
If this happens too quickly, blood vessels
near the surface of the skin can't always handle the increased blood flow. This
can cause blood to leak into the surrounding tissue, which may cause the
swelling and itchiness associated with chilblains.
Prognosis
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