Chilblains are a common problem of the toes in people who’s circulation does not respond very well to changes in temperature. They are small area of inflammation that is painful and itchy.
Popular belief is that chilblains are caused by the cold, but the cold is not enough to cause them. What actually causes them is a foot or toe that warms up too quickly after it gets cold. Another popular belief is that chilblains are a sign of poor circulation. The amount of circulation is not the problem. It is how the circulation responds to changes in temperature. When we get cold the circulation normally closes down somewhat to conserve body heat. When we warm up the circulation opens up. What happens in a chilblain is that after we get cold and the circulation closes down or constricts, it does not open up as quickly as it should on warming. Because of this waste products build up in the surface of the skin. This build up of waste products initiates an inflammation. Eventually the circulation opens up and rushes into the area. This causes the patch of skin to re red and itchy. In the worse cases the sin may breakdown into a sore.
When chilblains develops the foot needs to be kept warm. Rubbing with cream to help the circulation is always useful. The best way to prevent chilblains is to not let the foot get cold in the first place. If the foot does get cold, then it is extremely important that the foot only be warmed up very slowly, so the circulation can keep pace.
If you suspect you have chilblains, then the advice of a health professional should be sought.
