Why do the palms of the hands and feet “go numb” in winter?

Causes, symptoms and treatment of blisters on hands and fingers in winter

Many people experience sudden blisters, water-filled blisters, irritation or itching on their hands and fingers during winter. This problem is not only uncomfortable, but sometimes it can also cause pain and infection. This problem is especially common in those who have sensitive skin, poor blood circulation or have to work more in winter.

In this article, we will know in detail about the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment of blisters on hands and fingers in winter.

🌡️ Why do blisters appear on the fingers in winter?

When the temperature drops in winter, the blood vessels in the skin and the moisture in the skin change from both sides. As a result, blisters can form for various reasons.

🔍 Possible causes in detail

1) Chilblains / Pernio

This is the most common cause in winter.

How does it happen?

In extreme cold, the blood vessels suddenly contract. Then, when they come back to a warm environment, they expand again rapidly. This rapid contraction and expansion causes small hemorrhages or fluid to accumulate inside the skin, resulting in reddish spots, irritation, pain or white water-filled blisters on the fingers.

Symptoms:

• The fingers turn red or purple.
• Mild irritation, itching or pain.
• In some cases, small blisters filled with white water.

2) Dry skin and eczema (Hand Dermatitis / Dyshidrotic eczema)

How does it happen?

The air becomes dry in winter. Washing hands or using detergents destroys the protective layer of the skin. Small water-filled blisters form deep in the skin.

Symptoms:

• Many small white water-filled blisters.
• Severe itching.
• Dry and peeling skin.
• Recurrent problems.

3) Allergic reactions

In winter, many people get allergic to gloves, lotions, soaps or rubber from hot packs and develop blisters.

4) Mild frostnip

Working in extremely cold weather can cause blisters on the fingers, but this is relatively rare.

🩹 How to take care of yourself at home? (Home treatment)

✔ 1) Temperature control

• Avoid sudden changes in cold and hot temperatures.
• Use gloves when going outside.
• Avoid cold water.

✔ 2) Keep the skin moist

After washing your hands 3–5 times a day: Apply a thick layer of glycerine cream, ceramide/urea cream, or Vaseline, especially before going to bed at night.

✔ 3) Do not pop blisters

Bacteria can enter and cause infection if they are broken.

✔ 4) Soak your hands in lukewarm water

Soak for 10–15 minutes, dry them, and apply moisturizer, which increases blood circulation.

🧴 Which cream/medicine works? (General instructions)

• (Do not use steroid creams for a long time without consulting a doctor)
• For mild irritation or itching, a mild steroid cream (such as hydrocortisone 1%) can be used for a few days.
• If it is like eczema, a doctor can prescribe a stronger cream.

⚠ When should you see a doctor?

• If the blister becomes pus.
• If the pain or redness increases rapidly.
• If the skin turns blue or black.
• If you have diabetes.
• If the blisters recur or last all winter.

Question and answer

❓ Is blistering of fingers dangerous in winter?

👉 Not usually, but if neglected, it can lead to infection.

❓ Does it get better when winter is over?

 👉 Yes, in most cases, it heals when the temperature is normal.

❓ What happens if the blister bursts?

👉 The risk of infection and scarring increases.

This information is for education and general awareness. For proper treatment, be sure to consult a doctor.

Read more

• Pain and sweating in hands and feet in winter
• Home and effective ways to relieve body pain

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