How do you treat chilblains on your toes?

Published by Charlie Davidson on

How do you treat chilblains on your toes?

Treating chilblains at home

  1. Resist the urge to scratch, as this will further damage the skin.
  2. Use calamine lotion or witch hazel to soothe the itching.
  3. Lanolin or similar, rubbed into the feet, will help retain body heat.
  4. Wear woollen or cotton socks.
  5. Keep your whole body warm.

What do chilblains look like on toes?

Chilblains are small red itchy patches that can appear on toes and fingers after you’ve been in the cold, particularly in winter. They have a distinctive ‘dusky pink’ appearance and can be very tender and itchy. Sometimes they can look a bit like a bruise and sometimes toes can become quite swollen.

How do you get rid of winter toes?

If you have chilblains, these are some home treatments you can try:

  1. Resist the urge to scratch, as this will further damage the skin.
  2. Use calamine lotion or witch hazel to soothe the itching.
  3. Rub Deep Heat or similar onto the feet to promote heat and circulation.
  4. Wear woollen or cotton socks.
  5. Keep your whole body warm.

Can you get rid of chilblains?

Chilblains often get better on their own after a week or two without treatment. It may help to use a soothing lotion, such as calamine or witch hazel, to relieve itching. Your pharmacist may also be able to recommend a suitable product. If your chilblains are severe and keep returning, speak to your GP.

Why am I getting swollen toes?

A swollen toe can occur for many different reasons, including injuries, infections, and conditions such as arthritis. Some causes of a swollen toe require a visit to the doctor. In general, people should see a doctor if the swelling persists or is accompanied by pain or other worrying symptoms.

How do you treat a swollen toe?

Try rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE method). Avoid putting weight on the injury and apply an ice pack for 10–20 minutes at a time. Wrap or bandage the area to reduce swelling and elevate the foot above the heart when lying or sitting. Soak an injured toenail in warm water or Epsom salts.

How do you get rid of swollen feet in the winter?

Here are 10 to try.

  1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.
  2. Buy compression socks.
  3. Soak in a cool Epsom salt bath for about 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Elevate your feet, preferably above your heart.
  5. Get moving!
  6. Magnesium supplements can be helpful for some people.
  7. Make some dietary changes.
  8. Lose weight if you’re overweight.

What should you not do with chilblains?

Chilblains don’t usually result in permanent injury. But the condition can lead to infection, which may cause severe damage if left untreated. The best approach to chilblains is to avoid developing them by limiting your exposure to cold, dressing warmly and covering exposed skin.

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