Causes of Chilblains
Causes of chilblains are primarily linked to abnormal reactions of the body’s blood vessels to cold temperatures. While chilblains are not fully understood, several known triggers and contributing factors can help explain their development and recurrence.
1. Cold Exposure
The most direct cause is prolonged exposure to cold, damp, or windy conditions. When skin becomes chilled, blood vessels near the surface constrict to preserve heat. If the area is then rapidly rewarmed — for instance, by placing cold hands near a heater — the blood vessels may expand too quickly, causing blood to leak into nearby tissues.
This sudden change can lead to inflammation, redness, and the painful swelling associated with chilblains.
2. Poor Circulation | Causes of Chilblains
People with poor peripheral circulation are more susceptible to chilblains. Reduced blood flow means the body has a harder time adapting to temperature changes, increasing the risk of vessel damage and inflammation.
3. Repeated Exposure
Frequent or repeated exposure to cold environments, especially without proper protective clothing, can lead to recurring episodes. Manual workers, outdoor labourers, and those living in poorly heated homes are at higher risk.
4. Skin Sensitivity
Some individuals have more sensitive skin or thinner layers of subcutaneous fat, which makes their extremities less insulated and more vulnerable to cold damage.
5. Underlying Medical Conditions | Causes of Chilblains
Certain health conditions are associated with a higher incidence of chilblains, including:
- Raynaud’s disease
- Lupus (SLE)
- Diabetes
- Connective tissue disorders
These conditions can affect how blood vessels respond to temperature, increasing susceptibility to chilblains.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies and Lifestyle
Poor nutrition, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle may also contribute by impairing vascular health and the body’s ability to regulate temperature effectively.
Understanding the causes of chilblains allows at-risk individuals to take steps to protect themselves, especially during colder months or in drafty environments.
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