If your fingers or toes become itchy and red or purple after being outdoors in cold weather, you may have chilblains—an inflammatory skin reaction to cold. The discomfort can be frustrating, but not every change in finger or toe colour should be attributed to the weather.
What do chilblains look and feel like?
Chilblains usually appear several hours after cold exposure. The affected areas may swell, hurt or burn. They are different from frostbite, where tissue freezes. Colour changes may be less obvious on darker skin, so tenderness and swelling matter too.
Practical care and prevention
- Wear warm, dry gloves and socks. Avoid tight socks and shoes.
- Keep your whole body warm with suitable layers.
- Warm cold hands and feet gradually. Do not place them against a heater or in hot water.
- Avoid scratching or vigorous rubbing. Moisturiser can help dry, intact skin.
- Protect cracked skin with a clean dressing and seek advice about assessment.
When should you be examined?
Arrange medical assessment if symptoms do not improve within two to three weeks, keep returning, or involve pus or fever. People with diabetes should have toe problems assessed promptly. Treatment depends on the examination and circulation.
Numbness with hard, frozen skin, blisters after severe cold exposure, or unusual confusion and drowsiness need urgent medical attention. These may indicate frostbite or dangerously low body temperature. Do not rub the affected area or apply direct heat.
Frequently asked questions
Will sitting beside a heater help?
Sudden, direct heating is unsuitable. Let the affected area warm gradually.
Is it normal for this to return every winter?
Recurrence can happen, but assessment is worthwhile, especially if sores develop.
Which cream should I buy?
Ask a clinician or pharmacist about a suitable product. Different cases do not necessarily need the same treatment.
For advice about persistent symptoms, contact Arvin Skin Hospital at info@arvin.af. This educational article does not replace an examination.