Cold Related Illnesses- Chilblains

Chilblains Chilblains are caused by the repeated exposure of skin to temperatures just above freezing to as high as 60 degrees F. The cold exposure causes damage to the capillary beds (groups of small blood vessels) in the skin. This damage is permanent and the redness and itching will return with additional exposure. The redness and itching typically occur on cheeks, ears, fingers, and toes. Symptoms Symptoms of chilblains include:

• Redness
• Itching
• Possible blistering
• Inflammation
• Possible ulceration in severe cases

First Aid Workers suffering from chilblains should:

• Avoid scratching
• Slowly warm the skin
• Use corticosteroid creams to relieve itching and swelling
• Keep blisters and ulcers clean and covered

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