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Who Gets Chilblains (Perniosis)

By Allan Chan

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Published: 10Mar2010
Word count: 430
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Chilblains (also called Perniosis) are abnormal reactions of small blood vessels in one's skin. This can happen when one is exposed to long standing cold temperatures.

After exposure, they normally occur a few hours later and can be very painful. The cold causes the small blood vessels to constrict and if the skin is suddenly re-warmed, blood leaks into the tissues because the blood vessels are not able to respond fast enough to sudden warming. Poor circulation increases the chance of contracting Chilblains.

Chilblains (Perniosis) are small red spots on one's skin, they are very itchy. Increasing pains can be felt when they start becoming dark blue because of congestion. Swelling also results. When they dry out they normally leave many cracks on the skin making the person susceptible to infection. They normally affect the feet and the toes especially on areas where bunions, callus and corns are found. It is because these parts of the body are exposed to great pressure (because of tight shoes).

Chilblains (Perniosis) may start in winter as the weather becomes colder. Initial warning signs may be itching and burning in the area where it is beginning to develop. Symptoms intensify when one moves and to a warm place. Redness and swelling becomes apparent. In most cases, the skin affected may break down and become unbearable ulcers and can very well become infected.

The exact occurrence pattern of Chilblains (Perniosis) is still unknown. People may get Chilblains yearly and even for their whole lifetime. Some who suffer from them every year may finally get sudden relief. Females commonly suffer from Chilblains more than men do. This may be due to the influencing factor of the hormones. Other contributing factors are poor nutrition, anemia, disorders on one's connective tissues, and some disorders on the bone marrow.

It is important to keep your feet warm at all times. Once the feet get cold, there is a great chance for Chilblains to develop. Use long pants, and high boots, leg warmers, and long socks. In case your feet get cold, warm them slowly not abruptly. Never expose your cold feet to direct and abrupt heat. If you can, stop smoking because it is a risk factor to getting Chilblains. If you can't stop, avoid smoking while you have them. For existing Chilblains, rub prescribed lotions to soothe and stimulate circulation. Avoid the urge to scratch the affected area. For cracked skin, dress affected area with antiseptic to prevent infection. Immediately consult a Podiatrist if your Chilblains (Perniosis) get worst, and if you are diabetic.

Allan is the founder Foot-Care.org. You can read up on many helpful information on bunion, heel spurs and plantar fasciitis that on this website. There is even have a foot health forum which you can use for free to ask podiatrists on foot related questions.

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