Chilblains, also called perniosis or blain. Chilblains are acral ulcers that occur when a predisposed individual is exposed to cold and humidity. Acral refers to the extremities (e.g. fingers and toes).
Chilblains are most common in the young and the elderly, and are more likely to occur in women. It usually occur on the smaller toes but, extremities such as the toes, nose, fingers and ear lobes are most at risk.
Symptoms
- Ulceration of the digits and toes
- Chilblains are more likely to occur on weight bearing or pressure points such as bunions and clawed toes.
- Itchy skin inflammation
- Skin redness and rash
- Toe skin / Finger skin inflammation
- Earlobe or nose inflammation
Wrong Diagnosis
When occurring on the feet, chilblain is a medical condition that is often confused with frostbite and trench foot.
Health Concerns?
Chilblains are often idiopathic in origin but can be manifestations of medical conditions that need to be investigated.
It usually has genetic / familial tendencies : common to close blood relations such as sisters.
The causes could be hormonal changes as it often happen to older women; poor nutrition; some connective tissue and bone marrow disorders.
Other underlying conditions that may be related to chilblain: erythema (dilated blood vessels), pruritus (similar symptoms) or anemia.
Prevention and Treatment
- With treatment, chilblains usually heal within 4 weeks; otherwise it may outlast the duration of cold and humid conditions. Once a crack occurs, it would be difficult to heal.
- The most effective prevention of chilblain is to stop exposure to cold and humidity.
- Avoid tight clothing and footwear that may constrict circulation. Remove any wet clothing, socks or shoes asap. Ensure that limbs are dry after washing with mild soap and warm water. Elevate, cover it with layers of loose warm clothes and allow to rewarm. Get prepared this winter to avoid discomfort.
- Avoid scratching; use anti-itch creams, such as Calamine lotion; eucalyptus oil, Zambuk ointment, Soov, Mopiko, etc.
- Home remedies include doing regular massage of the hands and feet in winter with any warmed vegetable oil or body butter for sensitive skin.
- Nifedipine may be used in more severe or recurrent cases. Its vasodilation helps reduce pain, facilitate healing and prevent recurrences.
- Diltiazem, a newer calcium channel blocker, may prescribed by the doctor
- A balanced healthy diet, exercise, supplements of zinc and vitamin K
- Smoking cessation and consultation with a dermatologist is advised.
Popular Culture
Don't worry, you're not alone. Chilblain has been mentioned in English literature, classics such as Jane Eyre and Atonement.
With care and treatment, or if necessary, further medical investigation, you'll be fine.
References :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chilblain
http://www.diseasesatoz.com/chilblain.htm
http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/c/chilblain/intro.htm
http://www.medical-library.net/content/view/1127/41/
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