Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Chilblains

Chilblains are itchy, burning or painful swellings after exposure to cold and damp. They are unusual in Curaçao but may occur after travel or marked cold exposure; warm up slowly and have ulcers, infection, diabetes, poor circulation or persistent symptoms assessed.

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Chilblains are itchy, burning or painful swellings after exposure to cold and damp. They are unusual in Curaçao but may occur after travel or marked cold exposure; warm up slowly and have ulcers, infection, diabetes, poor circulation or persistent symptoms assessed.

  • Itching, burning, tingling or pain in the fingers, toes, ears, nose or heels after cold exposure.
  • Red or purplish swollen areas, with colour changes that may be less obvious on dark skin.
  • Get out of the cold, remove wet clothing and warm the whole body and affected area slowly.
  • Do not use hot water, a hot-water bottle, hairdryer, radiator or vigorous rubbing on numb or vulnerable skin.
  • Make an appointment if the areas are not clearly healing after two to three weeks or keep returning.
  • For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.

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