Information on Frostbite

Frostbite can cause permanent damage to skin and underlying tissues, even when medically treated, if it is severe enough. It occurs when the tissue temperature falls below the freezing point. High winds increase the chances and rate of frostbite. It can occur in 30 minutes with the temperature at 10 degrees F.

• Frostbitten skin

Definition

• Frostbite is cold, pale and hard skin that has been exposed to direct cold. It may lack sensitivity to the touch, with intense aching pain. As it thaws, the area will become red and painful.

Causes

• Frostbite can be caused in minutes by exposing skin to very cold temperatures. Air temperature, wind speed and moisture all affect how fast frostbite occurs.

Potential

• According to Medline Plus, severe frostbite may cause blisters and gangrene and can damage deep structures such as tendons, muscles, nerves and bone.

Treatment

• Always seek emergency medical treatment for frostbite. If emergency help is not available, you may warm the affected parts with your hands or lukewarm, never hot, water. The affected part may also be wrapped with a warm cloth until you can get to medical help

Prevention/Solution

• Frostbite can be prevented easily by not exposing skin to severe temperatures for more than a few minutes. Gloves, mittens and earmuffs are cheap preventatives.