An itchy, purple-red swelling, usually on a toe or finger, caused by excessive constriction of small blood vessels below the surface of the skin in cold weather. Chilblains are most common in the young and the elderly, and women are more susceptible to them.
Chilblain, or erythema pernio (see under ERYTHEMA), is an in?amed condition of the hands or feet, or occasionally of the ears, and should not be confused with cracked or CHAPPED HANDS. Most commonly found in childhood and old age, it may be associated with generally poor health, though there may also be a genetic predisposition. Prevention with good food, warm clothing, a warm environment, and regular exercise to maintain the circulation, is the best treatment.
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