Exposure to cold and moisture can lead to which condition affecting the hands and feet?

Chilblains are a condition that occurs as a reaction to cold and moisture exposure, typically affecting the small blood vessels in the extremities. When the skin is exposed to cold and then re-warmed, it can lead to inflammation and painful swelling. Chilblains often manifest as red, itchy patches on the hands and feet, and in some cases, they can develop into blisters. This condition is particularly common in individuals with poor circulation or in areas that experience fluctuating temperatures.

On the other hand, frostbite involves the freezing of skin and underlying tissues, primarily due to prolonged exposure to extreme cold, resulting in more severe, lasting damage. Hypothermia refers to a systematic drop in body temperature and can affect overall bodily function, while frostnip is a milder form of frostbite that results in numbness and a pale appearance, which typically does not cause permanent damage. Understanding these distinctions can help clarify why chilblains is the proper identification of the condition associated with cold and moisture exposure.