What is the difference between chilblains and frostbite?

Answer by  mcdbeals (201)

Type and severity of exposure to cold is the primary difference. Chilblains result from exposure to a moist cold. They (it) affect your extremities with a rash and swelling. Frostbite results from freezing tissue, most notably your extremities. Frostbite destroys tissue; I don't think chilblains do that.

Answer by  jamieellison (1637)

Chilblains are ulcers in the extremities such as the feet and fingers that can be caused by cold, whereas frostbite is specific damage to skin and tissues due to cold.

Answer by  Elmore (124)

In frostbite, water molecules freeze and crystallize, causing cells and tissue to die. That death is permanent. Chilblains are red bumps that appear on arms and legs after cold exposure but it's not permanent. Frostbite occurs around 5 degrees F, Chiblains can occur at warmer temperatures.

Answer by  cody (1331)

chilblains is like frostbit but its different because you can get it in very cold areas and very hot areas, its because of acral ulcers thats the only difference between them