Itchy toes in the winter.. What causes it and how do I treat it?

ArabiaWeather - If you previously experienced itchy feet in the winter and were wondering what caused it and how to treat it correctly, read the following lines

Treatment of itchy toes in winter: medical treatment

Itchy toes in the winter are usually treated with medical treatments. Chilblains refer to a condition that occurs when the toes are exposed to cold, and small red, itchy spots appear after a short period. Although this itching most often affects the toes, it may also involve the fingers and face, as a result of narrowing of the blood vessels due to exposure to cold.

The following medical treatment is usually used in this case:

Corticosteroid creams - CC:

• It is used to treat inflammatory symptoms such as itching.
• You should consult a doctor before using it, especially if the skin on your toes is cracked.

Vasodilators:

• It is used to improve blood flow in the toes.
• These include nifedipine, which is also used to treat blood pressure.

Treating itchy toes in winter: home treatment

Important home methods for treating itchy toes in the winter include:

• Massage with wool fat (lanolin): Also known as lanolin, it helps warm the foot and restore its normal temperature.
• Resist the urge to scratch: Constant scratching should be avoided, as it can cause increased irritation and worsen the itching.
• Exercise: Simple exercises can improve blood circulation in the feet.
• Keeping the feet dry: It is preferable not to expose the feet to excessive heat sources and ensure dryness.
• Foot warmers: Wear cotton or wool socks to preserve heat and warm the entire body.
• Foot cleaning: Using an antiseptic to keep the foot clean and avoid infection.
• Quitting smoking: It is preferable to abstain from smoking to avoid narrowing of the blood vessels and to improve the healing process.

Diagnosis of itchy toes in winter

To determine the treatment for itchy toes in winter, an accurate diagnosis must be made based on symptoms and a history of exposure to low temperatures. Diagnosis also includes ruling out other possible causes for the symptoms, such as Reynaud's phenomenon (RP) or painful redness of the extremities (Erythromelalgia).

If the diagnosis is not clear, the doctor may suggest a skin biopsy (Skin Biopsy - SB), but this is considered a rare option and is only used in exceptional cases.

An accurate diagnosis helps better guide treatment and understand the possible causes of itchy toes.

Preventing itchy toes in winter

To prevent itchy toes in the winter, you can follow the following instructions:

1. Wearing warm clothes in winter: You must wear warm clothes for the feet, including shoes and socks, and also pay attention to wearing clothes that keep the body warm.
2. Improving blood circulation: By exercising regularly, blood circulation can be improved. It is preferable to avoid wearing tight socks and shoes that may restrict blood flow.
3. Avoid exposure to cold weather: It is recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to the cold and make sure to wear warm clothes before going out in low temperatures.
4. Preparation: Before going out in the cold, it is preferable to heat socks and shoes to avoid cold shock, and they can be placed in a warm place before use.
5. Avoid sudden exposure to significant temperature changes: When returning from outside at low temperatures, it is preferable to avoid direct exposure to heat sources, and the body can be warmed gradually to avoid thermal shock.

Source: WebTeb