Chilblains (cold feet)
Our General Practice Information Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfeJaKW8ZTg
Ingrown Toenails Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4e3zT6RKRw
Laser Therapy for Fungus Toenails Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGc7sXlKmQQ
Heel Pain Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AL23umiSGl4
Bunions Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKXGVctTnzo
Injuries, Fractures, Sprains Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkP798UkWc8
Diabetic Foot Care Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDV8B3nTviI
Warts Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAcmDmjxss8
Chilblains are caused by the skin's abnormal reaction to cold. Circulation is a determining factor for chilblains; people with poor circulation in the feet are more susceptible.
Chilblains are characterized by small itchy, red swellings on the skin, which become increasingly painful, swell, and dry out, leaving cracks in the skin and exposing the foot to the risk of infection. They occur on the extremities—the toes (particularly the smaller ones), fingers, the face (especially the nose), and the ear lobes. They can also occur on areas of the feet exposed to pressure, such as on a bunion or where the second toe is squeezed by tight shoes. Symptoms include burning and itching, swelling or redness, breaks in the skin, and ulcers.
Treatment includes keeping the body, legs, and feet warm, especially for individuals who have poor circulation and/or limited mobility.
Calamine lotion will take away most of the skin discomfort. If chilblains become ulcerated, application of an antiseptic dressing is the recommended form of treatment.