Frostbite is common in over-exposure to cold and wet temperatures. Usually the most susceptible to frostbite are the small, peripheral areas such as nose, ears, fingers, and toes. Frostbite may be accelerated by wind and humidity.

SYMPTOMS

In early exposure to cold temperature, the skin may be slightly flushed (pink). In time, the skin changes from pink to white or greyish yellow.

• Pain may be felt early but subsides as frostbite progresses
• Affected areas feel very cold and numb
• Blisters may appear later, depending on the severity of the exposure
• The body may become weaker as the condition becomes worse
• Mental confusion and impaired judgment may occur
• Eyesight begins to fail
• Coma and death can occur if life saving measures are not initiated immediately

TREATMENT

Remember that prevention is the best treatment.

• Move to a warm environment as soon as possible
• Remove all wet and frozen clothing
• Especially remove any clothing that may be tight or constricting
• Place the affected part in warm water only, NOT HOT
• Drink hot liquids, avoiding alcohol
• Avoid further exposure to cold temperature

WAYS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FROSTBITE

• Wear protective clothing to prevent frostbite
• Avoid smoking
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid bathing or showering prior to exposure to cold temperatures
• Keep moving, exercising fingers and toes whenever possible
• Move into a warm environment whenever possible
• Recognize early signs of over exposure to the cold, so frostbite does not occur.
• Never apply ice packs directly to your skin-use a towel or shirt between skin/ice.