What Are Chilblains and How Do You Treat Them in Lymington and the New Forest?

Do you remember being told as a child not to warm your hands (or even your bottom) directly on the radiator after playing outside in the cold? You might have heard the warning: “You’ll get chilblains!” As it turns out, that was wise advice.

Most people have heard of chilblains, but few know what they look like or how to manage them. Our expert podiatrist, Paul, has shared his helpful guide and tips to help you stay comfortable this winter. So whether you’re biking around Brockenhurst, Mooching through Milford on Sea or braving the golf course at Barton on Sea follow Paul’s advice to stay active outdoors.

What Are Chilblains?

Chilblains are small, itchy patches that can develop on your skin after exposure to cold temperatures. They occur when the skin reacts abnormally to sudden changes between cold and warmth. Although chilblains often clear up on their own, persistent or severe cases may require medical attention.

  • Chilblains usually appear a few hours after you’ve been in the cold.
  • You mostly get them on your fingers and toes. But you can also get them on your face and legs.
  • Your skin can feel itchy or like it’s burning.

Symptoms of Chilblains

  • Small, red, itchy patches on the skin.
  • A burning or tingling sensation.
  • Swelling or inflammation.
  • The affected skin may become dry or cracked over time.

Chilblains typically appear a few hours after exposure to cold and are most common on fingers and toes but can also affect the face and legs.

Causes of Chilblains

Chilblains are caused by an abnormal response to cold followed by rapid rewarming. Blood vessels constrict in cold weather, and sudden exposure to heat can cause blood to leak into surrounding tissue, resulting in the red, itchy patches.

How to Prevent Chilblains

Preventing chilblains is often about maintaining a steady body temperature and protecting your skin from extreme temperature changes.

  • Dress warmly: Wear thermal socks, gloves, and waterproof clothing when venturing out in cold weather around Lymington, Lyndhurst, and other New Forest areas.
  • Keep moving: Regular movement improves blood circulation and helps keep extremities warm.
  • Gradual warming: Avoid placing cold hands or feet directly on radiators or in hot water. Instead, warm them slowly using blankets or lukewarm water.
  • Avoid smoking and caffeine: Both can restrict blood flow, making chilblains more likely.

Treatment Tips

If you develop chilblains, here’s how you can find relief:

  • Keep warm: Maintain a steady, comfortable temperature.
  • Relieve pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help.
  • Avoid scratching: Scratching can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
  • Moisturize: Use unscented lotions to soothe dry or cracked skin.

When to Seek Medical Help

Consider seeing a podiatrist or GP if:

  • Chilblains persist for more than two to three weeks.
  • You notice pus or signs of infection.
  • You have a high temperature or feel hot and shivery.
  • Chilblains keep recurring.
  • You have diabetes and develop chilblains. Foot issues can be more serious for people with diabetes.

Book an Appointment

If you’re struggling with chilblains or other winter-related discomforts, we’re here to help.

For Podiatry services, call Paul directly on 07857 137732.

For Acupuncture appointments, contact Amanda directly on 07876 343 821.

For Counselling and Psychotherapy appointments email Anna directly at [email protected].

Please note that online bookings are not available for Paul, Amanda and Anna.

BOOK ONLINE or call us on 01590 679560 to schedule an appointment with our Chiropractors Ian, Abbi, or Fiona, Sports Injury Therapist Gareth, Massage Therapist Hannah and Holistic Therapist Jacqui.

Explore More Winter Wellness Tips

Stay warm, stay healthy, and let us help you put your best foot forward this winter to enjoy the beach at Milford-on-Sea, Lymington Sea Wall walks or forest adventures around Beaulieu.

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