Chill in the air can lead to small painful blisters

CHECK-UP:Chilblains occur when skin is exposed to low temperatures and is then warmed rapidly, writes MARION KERR

EVERY WINTER I develop small blisters on my ears and toes. They get extremely itchy and are often painful. Any idea what they might be?

It sounds like you suffer from chilblains, a painful inflammation of small blood vessels in the skin. Chilblains are usually the result of an abnormal reaction of the body to the cold. They tend to develop when skin is exposed to low temperatures and is then warmed rapidly. This causes small blood vessels under the skin to expand more quickly than nearby larger blood vessels, allowing blood to leak into adjacent tissues. Chilblains can cause itching, red patches, swelling and blisters to develop on the toes, fingers, ears and nose. Inflammation, burning sensations, changes in skin colour and pain may also occur. In severe cases, chilblains can become ulcerated. People with poor circulation or who are particularly sensitive to changes in temperature are more susceptible to chilblains. Although it’s not known why, women are more likely to get chilblains than men.

They are usually slow to heal, so what’s the best way to treat them?

Chilblains usually respond well to treatment and clear up within about 14 days. Mild chilblains can be treated with a topical application of a corticosteroid cream, which relieves the itching and swelling. Rubbing lanolin into the feet will help retain body heat. If the skin is broken, make sure to clean it well and use an antiseptic to prevent infection. Make sure not to scratch any affected lesions. In more severe cases medication to open up the blood vessels may be prescribed.

What will happen if I don’t take any action?

Although most cases of chilblains do not cause permanent harm, if left untreated they can lead to skin damage. Medical attention should be sought if chilblains do not respond to treatment, you have had them for longer than two weeks or they become infected. If you have poor circulation or diabetes, see a doctor immediately after discovering chilblains to prevent further complications.

How can I avoid chilblains?

To prevent chilblains, limit your exposure to the cold and dress warmly. Cover all exposed skin when going outside in cold weather and make sure you keep your hands, feet and face warm. Try and keep your home and workplace heated to a comfortable temperature. If your skin is exposed to the cold, be sure to warm it gradually, since the sudden re-warming of cold skin can cause and exacerbate chilblains.