What is frostbite?
Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing. It leads to a loss of feeling and color in the areas it affects, usually extremities such as the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can lead to amputation (removing the affected body part).
People who have poor blood circulation or are not properly dressed for extremely cold temperatures are at a greater risk for frostbite. If you notice redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin- frostbite may be beginning. Signs to look out for include a white-yellow skin area, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy and numbness. A person who has frostbite may not know they have frostbite until somebody points it out because the frozen parts of their body are numb.
Frostbite V.S. Hypothermia
Frostbite and hypothermia are alike, but they are really two different things. They both happen when it's cold outside. Hypothermia occurs when a person’s body temperature falls below 95 - they should seek medical attention immediately.
Treating frostbite
Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Get to a warm room or shelter.
Remove any wet clothing.
Warm them under dry layers of blankets and clothing.
Place areas affected by frostbite in warm-to-touch water.
Things to avoid when treating frostbite
Unless necessary, do not walk on feet or toes with frostbite.
Do not use a fireplace, heat lamp, radiator or stove for warming.
Do not use a heating pad or electric blanket for warming.
Do not rub or massage areas with frostbite.
Treating hypothermia
When someone has hypothermia it can be deathly and they need to seek medical attention immediately. If you can’t drive them to the ER then call 911 immediately. It might be necessary to begin CPR if the person is not breathing, but it may be important to wait for someone who is trained in CPR. The 911 operator can give you more instructions.
Dressing for cold weather
When it is cold outside, dress warm. Wear a jacket, gloves and a hat. Try not to stay outside for too long; only stay outside for 10 minutes or less at a time. Stay in a warm place. Never go outside without shoes on. Make sure your hair and body are completely dry. Layers can help you stay warm and avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
Tips from “Preventing Frostbite” by the CDC: Winter Weather