Can't sleep due to itchy chilblains

Chilblains are characterized by significant itching, which worsens upon exposure to heat. Patients often experience difficulty sleeping due to the intense itchiness.

Chilblains commonly occur during early winter and early spring, particularly affecting children, women, and individuals with poor peripheral circulation. Typical lesions appear as localized, congestive, dark purplish-red, edematous plaques with indistinct borders and a bright red periphery. The surface is taut, shiny, and soft in texture. Local pressure causes temporary blanching, followed by gradual return of redness upon release. In severe cases, blisters may develop, which can rupture and lead to erosions or ulcers, eventually leaving behind pigmentation or atrophic scars after healing.

Cold temperature is the primary cause of chilblains. The condition develops when small arteries in the skin constrict in response to cold (0–10°C), dampness, or sudden changes between cold and warm environments. Prolonged vasoconstriction leads to vascular paralysis and subsequent dilation, venous congestion, and impaired local blood circulation, resulting in lesion formation. Additionally, individual factors such as skin moisture levels, peripheral microvascular abnormalities, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, malnutrition, and endocrine disorders may contribute to disease development. Other predisposing factors include lack of physical activity, excessive sweating of hands and feet, wearing tight footwear, and prolonged work in cold outdoor environments.

Chilblains are self-limiting. Mild cases typically resolve spontaneously with proper warmth and avoidance of further triggering factors. For more severe cases, medical treatment under a physician's guidance is recommended. Intact lesions may be treated with topical applications such as vitamin E ointment or chilblain cream, while ulcerated areas may require antibiotic ointments.