Chilblains: Itchy, Swollen Toes in Winter Explained

Chilblains are small, itchy and painful swellings that appear after the skin gets cold and then warms up too quickly. They usually affect toes and fingers, and are common in damp, cold climates. Most heal within a couple of weeks.

Imagine coming in from a freezing walk and putting your cold feet straight onto the radiator. That evening your toes are red, swollen, burning and intensely itchy. It’s a chilblain, caused by blood vessels reacting to the sudden temperature change.

Signs

• Small red, purple or darker patches on toes, fingers, ears or nose
• Itching, burning and swelling
• Sometimes blistering

Treatment and prevention

• Don’t scratch; ask a pharmacist about soothing lotions
• Warm cold skin gradually, never with direct heat such as radiators or hot water bottles
• Keep feet and hands warm and dry with layers, gloves and warm socks
• Keep your home warm and stay active to boost circulation
• Stop smoking, which narrows blood vessels

But when should you see a doctor?

See a doctor if chilblains don’t heal within two to three weeks, keep coming back, become infected (pus, increasing redness, fever), or if you have diabetes or poor circulation, as foot sores can become serious. Recurrent chilblains can occasionally be linked to conditions such as lupus.

Sources: NHS (Chilblains), American Academy of Dermatology, Royal College of Podiatry. This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from your own nurse, doctor, podiatrist or pharmacist.