Chilblains on toes are small, itchy, painful red or purple swellings caused by the skin’s abnormal reaction to cold followed by rapid rewarming. They usually heal on their own in 1–3 weeks, but you should keep feet warm, avoid direct heat (like radiators), wear wool socks, and refrain from scratching.
Immediate Care and Tips for Relief
- Warmth: Keep feet warm, but warm them gradually, not directly in front of a heater or in hot water.
- Relieve Itching: Apply calamine lotion or witch hazel to soothe itching. Hydrocortisone cream may be used for inflammation.
- Protection: Keep feet dry and warm; wear clean, warm, woolly socks and comfortable, loose-fitting shoes.
- Do Not Scratch: Scratching can lead to infections.
- Pain Relief: Use paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage pain.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if the chilblains:
- Last for more than 2–3 weeks.
- Are extremely painful or become blistered/infected.
- Occur without exposure to cold.
- You have diabetes or poor circulation.
Prevention
- Keep your home heated.
- Avoid smoking, as it restricts circulation.
- Keep active to improve circulation.
- Wear thick socks and waterproof shoes in cold/damp weather.
Call us today
(09) 212 9612