Overview
- Frostbite is damage caused by extreme cold to skin / tissues
- At -15C or below, blood vessels constrict to preserve body temperature
- When this state persists, tissue injury occurs
- Frost bite usually affects tissues which are distant from the heart
- It also occurs in tissues that are most exposed to cold
- The organs that are usually affected are -
- Nose,
- Ears,
- Fingers
- Toes
- Care should be taken to prevent permanent tissue damage
Risk Factors
- Diabetes
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Use of beta-blockers
Symptoms
- Skin Discolorations
- Loose skin
- Tingling/burning sensation
- Partial/Complete numbness
In severe cases,
- Dry gangrene followed by amputation
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Treatment
Get medical help as soon as possible. Meanwhile
- Wrap the affected area using clean cloth
If no medical help is forthcoming -
- Move the victim to a warm place
- Treat hypothermia first. Cover the person well
- Keep the frost-bitten site in warm but not in hot water
- This should be done till sensations returns
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Steps to Avoid
- Do not rub / massage the affected area
- Avoid treatment if a second round of cold exposure is anticipated
- Treatment followed by freezing causes extensive damage
Prevention
- Avoid -
- Extreme cold
- Wet clothes
- Chilly Wind
- During cold weather, wear several layers of clothing
- Wear accessories like-
- Mittens, not gloves
- Two pairs of socks
- Hat / scarves to cover both ears well
- Get enough food and rest
- Avoid alcohol immediately before exposure to cold
- Avoid cotton clothing
