What is a chillblain?

Chilblains are itchy, red swellings that happen on your skin after they've been exposed to the cold for a long period of time, for example, after going for a walk in cold and wet weather.

Chilblains are also called pernio.

Most chilblains happen on your fingers and toes, but they can also affect your ears, nose and cheeks.

Chilblains are not usually serious, but they can be uncomfortable. They usually clear up by themselves within a few days or weeks, but there are things you can do to help speed up the process.

Chilblains are most common in children and young adults, but they can affect anyone.