Chilblains

Chilblains are localised inflammations of the skin which occur in cold weather, and affect the parts farthest from the centre of the circulation—viz. the hands and feet, more rarely the ears or nose. They are at first bright red, but as they disappear assume a purplish tinge. Sometimes they break and give rise to ulcers, which are slow to heal. They occur most frequently in young people, affect women more often than men, and are generally associated with weak health and a sluggish circulation. They are often extremely irritable and painful, especially when the affected part has been chilled, and is quickly warmed again. In their treatment, regard must be had to the general health; good feeding, exercise, and tonics should be prescribed. It is very important that tight shoes, gloves, garters, and bracelets should be avoided; and that the affected parts should be warmly covered when exposed to the open air. Locally, when the skin is whole, some stimulating agent answers best; tincture of iodine, spirit of camphor, or mustard applied moist and rubbed till it dries. If the skin be very tender, collodion painted over it is useful. Broken chilblains should be dressed with resin ointment or Peruvian balsam on lint.