What Are Chilblains?
Also known as pernio and perniosis, chilblains are a medical condition that typically affects the extremities. Often confused with frostbite and trench foot, chilblains are actually the result of the skin suddenly warming after being exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period. The result of this sudden increase in temperature is painful inflammation of the small blood vessels, otherwise known as chilblains.
This painful condition is characterized by several common symptoms. Chilblains can cause itching, red skin patches, and swelling and blistering. The condition typically effects the extremities or the toes, fingers, nose, and ears. Additional effects of the condition include burning sensation in the skin, changing color in the skin, additional pain, and possible ulceration.
The specific cause of chilblains is unknown; however, the condition is believed to be caused by the body’s abnormal reaction to the repeated exposure to the cold followed by rewarming the body. The action of warming the cold skin causes the small blood vessels to expand normally; however, in the case of an abnormal reaction, the small vessels may expand more quickly than the adjacent larger blood vessels can facilitate, cause a “bottleneck” situation and the resulting blood leakage into nearby tissues.
While chilblains do not typically cause permanent injury and is a condition that may get better on its own, the condition can be particularly painful and can also lead to infection and more serious complications if left untreated. Natural remedies are particularly effective for treating this type of condition. Applying aloe vera, propolis, and manuka honey applied topically can alleviate symptoms of the condition and cure the chilblains entirely. Applying black pepper essential oil is a natural treatment for the itch associated with chilblains while applying coconut oil, lavender, and tea tree oil also relieve the pain and remedy the condition. It is also important to prevent future recurrence of the disorder by avoiding the cold, dressing warmly and making sure the extremities are well protected when in the cold.
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