Causes

• Chilblains is caused by exposure to cold temperatures, even when you don't feel cold, notes Thomas Adams, physiology professor at Michigan State University. Exposure to cold can damage the blood vessels and cause them to dilate and leak out lymph fluid. The area then becomes red and slightly swollen, but it may not be painful. Generally, chilblains becomes evident when cold skin warms up quickly, such as placing hands under hot water or standing in front of a hot fire.
  
  

Risk Factors

• It doesn't have to be freezing outside for you to suffer from chilblains. November through April in climates that are humid with low but not freezing temperatures are when chilblains are likely to occur. People who are underweight, females, those with Reynaud's syndrome and people with poor circulation are more likely to develop chilblains. Additionally, people who wear tight or ill-fitting clothing and shoes are at an increased risk of chilblains. Those who have suffered from chilblains are more likely to suffer from the condition again than those who haven't ever had it.
  
  

Prevention

• Limiting the amount of time you expose your skinto cold air can help you avoid chilblains. You can minimize the chance of developing chilblains by warming cold skin slowly. For example, use tepid or warm water instead of hot water to warm up. Dressing in layers can help to reduce your exposure to cold air. Wear gloves and ear muffs or a hat to protect vulnerable skin. Also, keeping your home, office and vehicle warm but not extremely hot can also help reduce your risk of chilblains.
  
  

Treatments

• Gradual warming of your skin can help to control the pain associated with chilblains. Washing the affected area with soap and warm water can help to reduce the risk of the area becoming infected. Over the counter anti-itch medications like hydrocortisone cream can help to reduce the itching, which is helpful since you shouldn't scratch the affected area. If you think the area is infected, or if it doesn't clear up within one to three weeks, seek medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe corticosteriods to help with itching and swelling, antibiotics if an infection is present, or blood pressure medications to clear the blood vessels.