Chilblains Melbourne
What are chilblains?
Chilblains, also known as pernio or perniosis, are small red, blue or purple lesions that develop on the skin as a reaction to cold temperature. They can often be swollen, painful and itchy. Chilblains typically affect extremities such as toes, fingers, ears, nose, and legs, especially after exposure to cold.
The affected area is usually the part of the body exposed to cold, such as fingers, toes, or legs.
The lesions may appear as patches or bumps, and the affected skin may feel tender and sensitive. Swelling is a common feature of chilblains, caused by blood vessel constriction and leakage of blood into surrounding tissues. Symptoms of chilblains may develop several hours after exposure to cold.
Do you suffer from chilblains?
Signs & symptoms of chilblains
The following signs or symptoms can indicate a chilblain on the foot:
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A small red, blue or purple lesion on your foot
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The affected area may feel itchy, especially when the red lumps first appear, and this sensation can occur around the joints, resembling arthritis in the fingers and toes.
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Itchy patches are common, particularly during cold or damp weather, and can be tender and frustrating.
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The skin is often red, inflamed and swollen in the acute phase.
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As it undergoes healing it changes from a red to dark blue, bruised colour.
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The skin may develop hard skin or callus as it heals
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In extreme cases the chilblain can breakdown into an ulcer.
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Other symptoms may include blistering or ulceration, which can help in identifying the condition.
Causes of chilblains
Chilblains are a reaction caused by the skin’s exposure to cold temperature. They are most common in people who have poor circulation or who have a condition that affects their circulation such as diabetes, vasculitis or Raynaud’s disease.
Damp weather, in addition to cold, can trigger or worsen chilblains, as cold and moist conditions increase the risk. Risk factors for developing chilblains include poor circulation, certain medical conditions, and frequent exposure to cold and damp environments.
Sudden temperature changes to the skin can also exacerbate chilblains. When the skin is cold, blood vessels constrict, especially the small blood vessels just below the skin’s surface, and when the skin is exposed to heat, blood vessels dilate and become wider. When this constriction and dilation of blood vessels occurs too quickly, damage to the vessels can occur and fluid can leak into the surrounding tissue causing inflammation and a chilblain.
Chilblain diagnosis
Chilblains are diagnosed based on clinical examination and typical symptoms by our Melbourne podiatrists, who are experts in identifying skin conditions of the foot. To diagnose chilblains, a podiatrist will assess the appearance of the affected skin and may perform further tests, such as blood tests or skin sample analysis, if necessary to differentiate it from other conditions. Our podiatrists can also test your foot circulation to see if you might be more prone to chilblains.
Suffering from Chilblains on Your Toes?
Your toes are the most common place chilblains strike and for good reason. As the furthest point from your heart, your toes are the first to feel the effects of poor circulation and cold exposure. That small red, blue or purple lesion you’ve noticed? It’s your body signalling that it needs help.
Left untreated, chilblains on the toes can become intensely itchy, swollen and painful — and in severe cases, break down into open ulcers. Recurring chilblains can increase the risk of complications and more serious health issues. Severe chilblains may require medical intervention or medication to prevent further episodes and manage persistent symptoms. Our Melbourne podiatrists specialise in assessing toe chilblains, testing your foot circulation and creating a treatment plan to relieve your symptoms before they worsen. Don’t just put up with the pain, book an appointment today.
Podiatry treatment for chilblains
Preventing chilblains starts with protecting your body from cold and damp conditions, especially during Melbourne’s chilly winters. One of the most effective ways to prevent chilblains is to keep your whole body warm—not just your fingers and toes. Wearing warm clothes, such as thick socks, gloves, and layered outfits, helps trap warm air close to your skin and keeps warm blood circulating to the affected areas. This is especially important for people with poor circulation or underlying medical conditions like connective tissue disease, which can increase the risk of developing chilblains.
When venturing out in cold weather, make sure to dress in layers and choose materials that wick away moisture, as damp skin is more susceptible to chilblains. Waterproof footwear and gloves are excellent choices for keeping your skin dry and protected from damp air and wet surfaces. Avoiding sudden changes in temperature—such as moving quickly from a cold environment to a hot one—can also help prevent the small blood vessels in your skin from reacting too quickly, which is a common trigger for chilblains symptoms.
It’s also important to avoid exposure to cold for extended periods. If you have to be outside, take regular breaks indoors to allow your body to warm up. For those with a history of chilblains or poor blood flow, staying active can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of tissue injuries. Managing underlying medical conditions and avoiding smoking can further support healthy blood supply to your skin.
By taking these preventive measures—keeping your whole body warm, staying dry, wearing appropriate clothing, and managing your health—you can significantly reduce your risk of developing chilblains and keep your skin healthy throughout the cold and damp Melbourne weather.
Has a podiatrist checked your feet for chilblains?
At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. This includes diagnosis and treatment of chilblains.
So if you are suffering from painful chilblains, cold feet or poor foot circulation book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!