Content
Chilblains are caused by a fungus called Trichophyton, which is normally present on human skin and does not cause any sign on intact skin, but when it finds a moist and warm spot it can reproduce quickly causing itching, redness, peeling and even skin breakage, increasing the possibility of an infection at the site .
The treatment for chilblains can be done with the use of anti-fungal ointments, which must be applied daily until the complete improvement of the symptoms. These ointments are found in the pharmacy, and can be indicated by the pharmacist himself, but when they are not enough to cure the chilblains after 1 month of treatment performed correctly, it may be necessary to take antifungals in the form of pills, which need to be indicated by the doctor.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of the chilblain consists of applying an antifungal ointment such as terbinafine, isoconazole or ketoconazole daily, 2 to 3 times a day, for 4 weeks. Learn the other remedies for the treatment of chilblains and how to use them.
Before using the ointment, it is important to wash your feet carefully, avoiding to remove the loose skins so as not to increase the wound, and dry them very well, with the help of a shaggy towel and a hair dryer.
If the chilblain is located on the hands, the application of the ointment should be done whenever the person is washing their hands during the day, and the hands should be dried very well before application. In addition, during treatment, it is important to avoid placing your hands directly on your mouth or genital area, so that there is no contamination of these places by the fungus.
Care during treatment
For the treatment to have the expected effect and the chilblain does not get worse, it is necessary to have certain daily care, for life, such as:
- Wear slippers when bathing, especially in public places to avoid contact with the floor that may be contaminated;
- Use a towel only for the chilblain and wash it after each use;
- Dry well between your toes, after bathing and if possible use a hair dryer between your fingers;
- Wash the socks with hot water or wash with cold water, iron each sock;
- Choose slippers or open sandals on hot days, as your feet sweat more easily;
- Do not wear someone else's closed socks or shoes, as they may be contaminated;
- Leave sneakers and shoes closed in the sun after use;
- Spray antiseptic talcum powder before wearing closed shoes;
- Change socks whenever the foot is perspired;
- Avoid closed shoes made of synthetic material, such as plastic;
- Never wear a damp shoe;
- Do not walk barefoot.
These precautions, in addition to helping in the treatment of chilblains, are essential to prevent the appearance of new chilblains.
Why doesn't my chilblain cure?
If the treatment of the chilblain extends for more than a month and the wound does not improve, it is recommended to check that all the care instructions, since just using the ointment without following the daily care guidelines is generally not enough to cure the condition. chilblains.
If all the guidelines are being followed and the chilblain is still not improving, it is advisable to see a dermatologist, as there may be other causes, such as a more resistant fungus or even the weakened immune system.