Chilblains are a common condition that usually occurs in the winter season. They cause pain and irritation. They appear when the body reacts to sudden changes in temperature. This issue can cause pain, irritation, redness, or swelling on the skin. For Australians, especially those in areas that get chilly at night, it’s important to know how to get rid of chilblains quickly and effectively. In this article, we will go through the practical methods to treat chilblains and some strategies to prevent them.
What are chilblains?
Chilblains are the little, inflated, itchy marks that are formed on the skin as a result of a reaction against the wet or cold temperature. They are also known as ‘pernio’. Some little information about them is:
Appearance
Chilblains typically appear red, white, purple, or blue. The skin may also swell when it forms.
Position
Chilblains typically develop on areas like the nose, toes, fingers, and ears. They are also formed on the foot areas where uncovered by the pressure such as on the bunion.
Symptoms
The symptoms of chilblains include:
- The affected region shows a reddish, bluish, or purplish appearance.
- The affected area swells.
- Itchy, flaming, or pricking impacts.
- In serious cases, pain occurs in the affected area.
- If not treated accurately, they may develop into skin blisters, sores or ulcers.
Causes
Chilblains are primarily caused by two factors: cold temperatures and poor circulation. Here are some main causes of chilblains:
- Use of tobacco
- Poor diet
- Having a low body mass index (BMI)
- Poor circulation
- Medical situations like Lupus erythematosus, Raynaud disease, anemia, lymphomas, or leukemia.
- Some medicines can also increase the effect of developing chilblains.
How to get rid of chilblains quickly
Consider the following practical guidelines if you are also suffering from chilblains and want to treat them:
1. Moderately warm the affected area
Warm the affected area gradually to treat chilblains but focus on the following steps to get rid of them:
- Do not use direct heat or hot water bottles or heaters directly because it can make worse the situation.
- During cold weather, wear heatproof gloves or socks to keep extremities warm.
- Softly warm hands or feet with the help of lukewarm water. This will help to keep circulation properly without causing more irritation.
2. Make better the circulation
Lightly exercise to improve circulation in the feet.
- Gently rub the affected region to improve circulation.
- Make sure you do light exercises like walking or stretching. This helps stimulate better blood flow.
- Don’t sit or stand still for a long time, especially in a cold atmosphere.
3. Apply the soothing lotions or ointments
Soothing lotions or ointments can also help in treating chilblains:
- Natural medications like calendula ointment may also help in providing a little relief against chilblains.
- The over-the-counter creams contain menthol or camphor that assist in reducing irritation and itching.
- Topical corticosteroids, recommended by a doctor can assist in reducing the swelling of the skin in serious cases.
4. Maintenance of consistent temperature
Consistent temperature also helps in getting rid of chilblains:
- Live in a warm area and use portable heaters or heat pumps to maintain a steady temperature.
- Ensure using layered clothes such as warm gloves or socks. This will help in shielding against sudden temperature changes.
5. Avoid scratching
- Avoid scratching the irritated spot, as it may damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
- Keep your nails short to prevent infection from scratching the affected region.
- If itching is acute, use cotton gloves at night.
6. Eating properly
Eating well can also help in treating chilblains.
- The diet should include sesame seeds, oats, and almonds because they have important fatty acids in them which are essential for circulatory health.
- Supplements such as niacin (vitamin B3), calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin K can also help in treating chilblains.
When to visit a doctor?
Chilblains generally fade away on their own within 14 to 21 days. But some severe cases of them require professional treatment. A medical attention would be needed if:
- The symptoms keep going despite home treatment.
- The situation develops into an ulcer, infection, or acute pain.
- Chilblains often occur again and again as this suggests a basic condition like Raynaud’s disease.
In such cases, consult a healthcare professional.
Prevention of chilblains
Here are some ideas for preventing chilblains in future:
- Moisturization: Ensure drinking abundant water to keep your skin saturated. Use moisturizing cream to maintain the skin moisture and prevent dryness.
- Stay warm: Use moisture-absorbing and warm socks and shoes in the winter season. Wear gloves, socks and scarves to hide the areas subjected to chilblains.
- Avoid instant temperature changes: Do not expose yourself to heat immediately after coming from the cold environment. Gradually warm up yourself. You can also use a warm blanket or take a warm shower for this purpose.
- Take a healthy diet: Consume foods rich in Vitamin C to support good blood circulation and prevent chilblains.
- Give up smoking: Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of chilblains as smoking constricts blood vessels, worsens circulation, and increases susceptibility to chilblains.
Chilblains in Australia
The weather in Australia is mostly sunny but many regions including southern states such as Victoria and Tasmania encounter cold environments. People with sensitive circulation may develop chilblains just because of light temperature drop. Understanding and coping with this problem assist Australians to enjoy a healthy and comfort life in colder months.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get rid of chilblains quickly involves a combination of warmth, improved circulation, soothing ointments, and preventive care. Chilblains are usually manageable at home, but severe cases may require professional assistance. Preventive measures including staying warm, a healthy diet, and moisturizing can lessen the risk of recurrence. Australians can follow these steps to manage chilblains and enjoy a more pleasant winter season.
