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Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic staff

Treatment options for chilblains include:

  • Corticosteroid creams. Topical corticosteroids can help relieve itching and swelling.
  • Blood pressure medication. A blood pressure lowering drug called nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia) is sometimes used to treat the cause of chilblains, since it can help open up blood vessels.
  • Infection prevention. If your skin has broken, treatment also includes cleaning and protecting your wounds to prevent infection.
Lifestyle and home remedies Preparing for your appointment
References
  1. Prakask S, et al. Idiopathic chilblains. The American Journal of Medicine. 2009;122:1152.
  2. Pierard GE, et al. Cold injuries. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 7th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw Hill; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2953356. Accessed July 22, 2010.
  3. Bielan B. What's your assessment? Dermatology Nursing. 2006;18:445.
  4. Patra AK, et al. Diltiazem vs. nifedipine in chilblains: A clinical trial. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venerology and Leprology. 2003;69:209.
  5. Souwer IH, et al. Vitamin D3 is not effective in the treatment of chronic chilblains. The International Journal of Clinical Practice. 2009;63:282.
  6. Sheps SG (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 24, 2010.
DS01091 Sept. 3, 2010

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