Chilblains - how do I stop them?

Prevention is better than Cure.  We all know this and, as the cold weather starts to descend, chilblains start to affect us.

Chilblains are caused by a rapid change in temperature, such as moving from the cold outside into a centrally heated room. Some people are more susceptible to chilblains than others and whereas it is uncertain why this is, those most likely to develop the condition include teenagers, the elderly and those with a sedentary lifestyle. Chilblains rarely cause any long lasting damage, but they are however very painful and, as they dry out, the skin may crack and leave the area susceptible to infection. 

There are precautions that can be taken to help prevent chilblains from occurring:

        ·         Take regular, if gentle, exercise.
·         Dry feet thoroughly after washing
·         Apply Body Essentials 'Warm Your Sole' which contains marjoram to soothe and calm and  ginger, to warm the area.

        ·         Wear natural fibres next to your skin
·         Wear good fitting footwear
·         Attempt to keep the whole body warm, not just extremities by wearing several layers
·         Avoid the temptation to 'hug' radiators.

       For further advice, visit the Footcare Clinic in Macclesfield.