|  | Conditions Treatments | Wounds Injuries

Frostbite Effects

Frostbite happens when the fluids in the body's skin and tissues freeze. Contributing factors of frostbite include wind, humidity, high altitude, ingestion of alcohol or drugs, prolonged exposure to cold and certain medical conditions. The cheeks, toes, fingers, ears and nose are the most affected. Frostbite can be a serious condition with effects that range from mild "frostnip" to severe injury.

  1. Early Symptoms

    • Recognize the symptoms of frostbite early on. Mild frostbite, called frostnip, affects the outer layers of skin and begins as a tingling sensation. Other early effects of frostbite can include itching, swelling and burning. The skin appears partially red and there is a deep pain when warmed. Blackened blisters can appear as the frostbite worsens, and the affected areas may become numb.

    Later Symptoms

    • In more severe cases of frostbite, the skin is frozen through and appears white, grayish-yellow or grayish-blue. Hemorrhagic blisters and skin death may occur at this point. Other symptoms include burning, throbbing, aching and loss of feeling. As the frostbite worsens, damage occurs to the muscles, bones, nerves and tendons. Affected areas feel hard and appear mummified. There may also be joint pain.

    Other Effects

    • Many people suffer long-term effects from frostbite. Amputation may be needed in severe cases. There is also significant pain when frostbitten areas are re-warmed. This pain can turn into a throbbing sensation that persists for up to months. Other long-term effects of frostbite include irregular sensations in the affected areas, sensitivity to heat or cold, excessive sweating and arthritis.

    Hypothermia

    • People with frostbite may also have hypothermia. Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's temperature significantly drops. Seek treatment for hypothermia first; the loss of a few fingers from frostbite is less important than the loss of a life.

    Self Treatment

    • If you suffer from frostbite symptoms, get to a warm place. Elevate the affected areas above your heart to reduce swelling. Leave blisters intact and cover with sterile bandages to avoid rupture. If any fingers or toes are affected, place cotton between them to prevent rubbing. Do not rub affected areas with snow. Avoid letting the affected areas thaw gradually; the best way to re-warm them is quickly. To re-warm, use 100 degree water for 30 to 45 minutes on the affected areas until the skin is flush. Seek medical treatment if possible.

    Considerations

    • Areas affected by frostbite can appear misleadingly healthy, but it can take months for the true damage to become obvious. Get medical help if you experience even mild effects of frostbite. It's best to have the affected areas re-warmed and treated under medical supervision. Your doctor can also evaluate the injury and assist you in the recovery process.

Wounds Injuries - Related Articles