Hello Doctor,
I have a concern about chilblains in winter. Every year, during the winter months, I experience chilblains in both my fingers and toes. While the symptoms in my toes typically include swelling, this time, the situation with my fingers seems different. Initially, I had swelling and itching, but now I only notice red patches, and over these patches, I observe wrinkles. Can you provide some insight into this?
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
I appreciate you sharing your concerns about chilblains, or pernio, during the winter season. Chilblains are small, itchy, red patches that can develop after exposure to cold, damp conditions. It's not uncommon for individuals to experience chilblains each winter, especially on extremities like fingers and toes.
The symptoms you're describing in your toes, including swelling, are typical of chilblains. However, the change you're experiencing in your fingers, with red patches and overlying wrinkles, presents a different scenario. While it's possible that this could be part of the healing process, it's also essential to consider other potential conditions.
To ensure you receive the appropriate treatment, I strongly recommend scheduling an appointment for a thorough examination of your fingers. This will allow us to further assess the condition and determine the best course of action.
In the meantime, it's crucial to keep your hands and feet warm and dry, as prolonged exposure to cold, damp conditions can worsen chilblains. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thanks
