DEFINITION

Chilblains are areas of redness, swelling and itchiness of the skin that are caused by exposure to very cold, damp conditions.

DESCRIPTION

Chilblains are white or slightly bluish in colour, range in size and occur most commonly on the fingers and toes. Although they can cause pain and discomfort, Chilblains do not cause permanent damage. Chilblains are caused by a reduction in the amount of blood that flows to the outer layers of the skin, which occurs during cold temperatures when the body tries to conserve heat by directing blood away from the skin. Chilblains are often reported by people who must work with their hands uncovered in a cold environment (e.g. cow milkers). Chilblains occur in people of all ages, including healthy, young adults, but for some reason, some people seem to be more susceptible to Chilblains during cold weather than others. It seems that some people have special forms of proteins in their body that react unusually to cold temperatures by clumping together. Chilblains seem to be more common in people who have Raynaud's phenomenon or Raynaud's disease (these are conditions where the blood vessels contract excessively). Also, people with systemic lupus erythematosus or HIV may be more susceptible to Chilblains.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Always consult your Doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of Chilblains. The treatment for Chilblains is keeping the affected part of the body (e.g. fingers and toes) warm and if a Chilblain ulcerates and becomes infected, topical antibiotic creams or other medications may be required. In people who are particularly susceptible to Chilblains, oral medication may be given that dilates (opens) the blood vessels, which allows blood to flow to the outer layers of the skin. This can help prevent Chilblains from forming.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
1) Follow the Diet Hints.
2) A local anaesthetic cream may relieve the itching and soreness. Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
3) If a Chilblain becomes ulcerated and/or infected, ask your Pharmacist about an appropriate wound dressing and antibiotic cream.
4) Regular exercise can help improve the circulation.
5) One of the best ways to prevent Chilblains is to wear warm clothing e.g. gloves in wintertime.
6) Cigarette smoking causes constriction of blood vessels, which may increase the risks of developing Chilblains. Ask your Pharmacist about a range of smoking cessation products that may be of assistance.
7) Consider some nutritional supplements if the diet is inadequate.

DIET HINTS

Eat a balanced diet. This will enable the body to feel as energetic as possible and improve the body's ability to heal and to fight infection. The following steps are recommended:
1. Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods.
2. Eat plenty of breads and cereals (preferably wholegrain), vegetables (including legumes such as those found in the pea and bean families) and fruits.
3. Eat a diet low in fat and, in particular, low in saturated fat.
4. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake.
5. Eat only a moderate amount of sugars and foods containing added sugars.
6. Choose low salt foods and use salt sparingly.
Please see the Healthy Eating Diet on the Healthpoint for further information.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

- Vitamin B3 (in the form of nicotinamide) can increase circulation to the peripheries. Ask your Doctor.
- Calcium and magnesium are minerals involved in the contraction and relaxation of blood vessel walls and play an important role in maintaining healthy blood circulation.
- Ginkgo biloba is a herb that helps to improve the flow of blood to the head and hands and feet. Ginkgo may help to reduce the pain and inflammation of Chilblains.
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a herb with anti-inflammatory properties. The pain of Chilblains is usually worse in cold weather. Ginger has a warming effect on the body and may help to reduce this pain.
- Cayenne (Capsicum minimum) helps to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy blood circulation. Cayenne may be used in conditions marked by poor circulation to the hands and feet including Chilblains.
- Prickly Ash has been used traditionally by herbalists to improve poor circulation.

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