Why do you get frostbite?

Frostbite occurs when body tissue freezes. This can happen when the temperature is very cold, even above freezing, if a body part is exposed to the cold for a long time. Frostbite is most common in the fingers, toes, nose, and ears.

When tissue freezes, it damages the cells and blood vessels. This can cause swelling, pain, and blisters. In severe cases, frostbite can lead to tissue death and amputation.

Frostbite can be prevented by wearing warm clothing and covering exposed skin when outdoors in cold weather. It is also important to stay dry and to avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate the body and make it more susceptible to frostbite.

Risk factors for frostbite include:

* Exposure to cold temperatures: The risk of frostbite increases with the length of time that a body part is exposed to the cold.

* High wind chill: Wind chill is the temperature that it feels like outside when the wind is blowing. The higher the wind chill, the greater the risk of frostbite.

* Wet clothing: Wet clothing can conduct heat away from the body and increase the risk of frostbite.

* Alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body and make it more susceptible to frostbite.

* Certain medical conditions: People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, Raynaud's disease, and peripheral artery disease, are at increased risk for frostbite.

Symptoms of frostbite include:

* Numbness or tingling: This is the first sign of frostbite.

* Pale or white skin: The affected skin may also be hard or waxy.

* Blisters: Blisters may develop on the affected skin.

* Pain: The affected skin may be painful or throbbing.

* Loss of movement: The affected body part may become immobile.

If you think you may have frostbite, seek medical attention immediately. Do not try to thaw the affected area yourself, as this can further damage the tissue.

Treatment for frostbite includes:

* Rewarming the affected area: This can be done by immersing the affected area in warm water (104 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit) or by applying a warm compress.

* Administering pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to relieve pain.

* Applying antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.

* Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove dead tissue.