Treating And Preventing Chilblains

Chilblains are red lumps that usually develop on the fingers and toes after exposure to cold. Chilblains are also known as pernio, perniosis, cold-induced vascular disorder, and chill burns. The lesions may appear purple or brown on darker complexions and are caused by inflammation of tiny blood vessels that can occur during rewarming of skin after cold exposure. Blood leaking into nearby tissue when the blood vessels expand too quickly causes swelling. This reaction can occur in any part of the body, but mainly affects the earlobes, nose, fingers, and toes. Symptoms include a burning sensation, itchiness, pain, or blistering.