We understand chilblains

A popular question this time of year that we hear from grooms is "What are chilblains, how do you prevent and treat them?"

These small, red, itchy swellings are very common among grooms, usually the problem areas are the thighs, although it is also common to see them on fingers, toes, ears, and nose.

Chilblains happen as an abnormal response to the cold temperatures. The blood vessels shrink to keep inside the body warm, rather than the skin itself and when the body is warmed too quickly it can cause blood and fluid to leak, causing the red and swollen patches.

Are you high risk?

Anyone who spends time outside could get chilblains, however your chances of getting chilblains are increased if you;

• Smoke (smoking affects the arteries and causes them to constrict)
• Suffer with some form of connective tissue disorder such as lupus
• Suffer from Raynaud's syndrome
• Have a family history of chilblains being present
• Have diabetes, as this can affect the circulation

How to avoid getting chilblains

It’s impossible to guarantee you won’t get chilblains, but these tips will certainly help;

Keep warm, use layers of clothing to trap in body heat. Tights, base layers, long johns, over trousers are all essential to keep your body and skin warm.

When you come inside to a warm place do not be tempted to stand by a heater or fire, the same goes for hugging hot water bottles or jumping in a hot bath. The skin must be warmed up slowly as a sudden jump in temperature will contribute to developing chilblains. Warm up slowly by changing your clothes and maybe use a blanket and slippers.

Chilblain treatment

Do NOT scratch! This will cause further damage to the skin.

Use calamine lotion or witch hazel to soothe the itching. Visit your GP if your symptoms are severe.

Keep the area warm and massaging the area will increase circulation.

The NHS advise that you can take paracetamol / ibuprofen if they are sore (always check with a pharmacist).

Wear thick socks to keep the body warm and allow the blood vessels to return to normal. When outside use gloves and a hat. Preventing body heat from escaping through the extremities will keep more body heat in and reduce the need for the blood vessels to shrink. Warning!

Please see your GP if you are concerned, have severe or reoccurring chilblains. There have been reports of Covid rashes that look similar to chilblains, so if your rash is not normal for you at this time of year, please seek medical advice.

Join 1000’s of other grooms with and without itchy thighs this winter, by belonging to your professional association.

If you would like to become a BGA member, have a look at our membership options, from as little as 49 pence per week.