User:Mr. Ibrahem/Chilblains

Chilblains, also known as pernio, is a type of cold injury that results in red, itchy, and tender areas of skin. Less commonly blistering and ulceration may occur. The fingers, toes, ears and cheeks are most commonly affected.

Chilblains typically occurs due to prolonged exposure to cold. The degree of cold; however, is less than freezing, which would result in frostbite. Risk factors include lupus, smoking, family history, and Raynaud's. The underlying mechanism involves the inflammation of small blood vessels. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and examination.

Prevention is generally by keeping the hands and feet warm. Other measures may include avoiding caffeine and potentially taking nifedipine. Treatment may involve the use of corticosteroid creams. It may take a week or two for an episode to resolve.

Chilblains is relatively common in regions of the world with cold climates. The young and old are most commonly affected. Women are more commonly affected than men. The condition has been described since at least the 1st century by Pedanius Dioscorides of Anazarbus.