Chilblains

At Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, Drs. Frank Killian and Sameep Chandrani provide quality podiatric care to patients in Hamilton Township, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ, areas. One of these foot conditions is known as Chilblains. Also known as erythema pernio, these are areas of skin on the foot that experience discoloration and swelling. It causes discomfort by being both itchy and painful. If you experience these symptoms, contact our podiatry team right away.


 


Your feet require extra maintenance in the cold and rainy months. Taking the appropriate preventive measures is the only way to go. Your podiatrist in the Toms River, Hamilton Township, and Plainsboro Township, NJ, areas can diagnose a chilblain from a simple evaluation. This is because the identifying symptoms are easy to spot. The toes turn blue, purple, or red at first. Then the skin becomes itchy and eventually turns into a painful burning. Quick treatment is a must-have. Chilblains put you at risk for developing serious bacterial infections through the cracks in the skin.


 


Patients develop chilblains after exposing their feet to the cold and rainy weather for longer periods. It also happens if you submerge your feet too. The best thing you can do is wear thicker socks and the right types of shoes when going out. If your feet do get damp, take your time warming them back up to avoid chilblains.


 


Your podiatrist can provide you with the appropriate treatment. The best thing you can do is avoid scratching the injured area. Use a lotion with soothing qualities to remove your discomfort. If the skin is broken or ulcerated, treatment will be more aggressive.


 


Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, is located in Hamilton Township, Toms River, and Plainsboro Township, NJ. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Frank Killian and Sameep Chandrani, visit their website at https://www.newjerseyfoot.com/.

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