Chilblains

Chilblains are small, painful, itchy and swollen patches of skin caused by an abnormal reaction of the tiny blood vessels (microcirculation) to cold, followed by rapid rewarming. They most often appear on the toes and feet during the cooler Central Coast winter months, and while they're rarely dangerous, they can be very uncomfortable.

What are chilblains?

Chilblains (sometimes called pernio) develop when small blood vessels in the skin constrict in the cold and then expand too quickly when the area is warmed. This can cause fluid to leak into surrounding tissue, producing the characteristic red, blue or purple patches. They usually settle within a week or two but can recur with repeated cold exposure. For many people the cause is idiopathic — meaning no underlying disease is found — though they can be linked to circulation and other health factors [1].

What causes chilblains, and what are the symptoms?

The main trigger is exposure to cold combined with rapid rewarming — for example, coming inside and putting cold feet straight in front of a heater. Risk factors include poor circulation, certain medications, sitting still for long periods, and damp or tight footwear.

Common symptoms include:

• Itchy, red, blue or purple bumps or patches, often on the toes
• Tenderness, swelling and a burning sensation
• Worsening discomfort when cold skin is warmed too quickly
• In more severe cases, blistering or breaks in the skin, which can risk infection

How does Blueprint Podiatry assess and treat chilblains?

Our podiatry team will examine the affected skin, ask about your circulation and cold exposure, and check for any complications such as blisters, ulceration or signs of infection. Where appropriate, we'll consider whether your symptoms warrant referral to your GP for further investigation.

Because chilblains are driven by poor microcirculation and cold, our focus is on protecting your feet and managing symptoms, which may include:

• Practical advice on keeping feet warm with appropriate socks and footwear
• Guidance on gradual rewarming rather than sudden heat
• Recommendations on moisturisers and creams that may help support skin and circulation
• Careful management of any skin breaks or wounds to reduce infection risk
• Reviewing footwear so it isn't too tight, which can restrict circulation

Every one of our three registered podiatrists holds a Bachelor of Podiatry, so you'll receive a thorough, qualified assessment. Our Tuggerah clinic also offers wound management and dermatological foot care if your chilblains have broken the skin.

When should you see a podiatrist about chilblains?

Book an appointment if your chilblains keep returning, are very painful, blister or break open, or show any signs of infection such as increasing redness, warmth or discharge. If you have diabetes or known circulation problems, it's important to have any foot skin changes checked promptly.

Related services

• General Podiatry