Having to stay at home for nearly a year was enough to change most habits. Some people gained weight, some took up new hobbies. But for some, the change was unexpected.
Many have reported their toes getting surprisingly itchy, of all things.
According to a new study published Wednesday in JAMA Dermatology, these itches are unrelated to the COVID-19 virus, and actually a result of lifestyle changes. "'COVID toes' is a term that got applied to a condition we see often in the winter called Chilblains," said Dr. Patrick McCleskey, a dermatologist with Kaiser Permanente and one of the study’s authors.
Chilblains, also called pernio can cause itching, red patches, swelling and blistering on your hands and feet. They are caused by painful inflammation of small blood vessels in skin, in response to repeated exposure to cold air, McCleskey explained.
Those who experienced "COVID toes" tested negative for the virus, and are most likely experiencing them from not wearing socks and shoes while staying home during the lockdown.
"Only 6% of our patients say they wear shoes at home," said McCleskey. "And half of those folks said they weren’t using home heating."
And if the floors are cold, this can increase the chance of getting "COVID toes."
Treatment is relatively simple, according to the Mayo Clinic website: use some lotion and protect your toes from the cold.