Cold injuries of the toes and feet usually occur in winter when the cold temperature combines with slightly moist skin to create injury. Cold weather injuries may consist of Frostbite or the less severe but still painful Chilblains.
This condition is more commonly seen in slim young, woman and in certain at risk populations including:
-Smokers (due to nicotine induced vasoconstriction)
-Persons with peripheral arterial disease (diminished blood flow to extremities)
-Persons with a family history of Chilblains
-Persons with certain autoimmune diseases including Lupus
-Persons with Raynaud’s disease or phenomenon
- Persons with diabetes (due to peripheral neuropathy causing inability to feel the cold and /or PAD)
Treatment of Chilblains may consist of topical steroid creams, oral medicines (for persons with chronic Chilblains) which help to vasodilate the small blood vessels, and antibiotic ointment for any areas of skin which become open.
The goal is to prevent cold injury by keeping the extremities warm and dry using mittens, socks and appropriately fitting water resistant foot gear. Avoiding Chilblains is the best treatment!