Frostbite is caused by prolonged exposure to extreme cold, usually on the extremities. Reduced blood flow to the skin can lead to cell death and severe cases may require amputation. Prevention includes dressing in layers and avoiding alcohol. If frostbite occurs, wrap affected areas in loose cloths and consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Frostbite is a medical condition caused by prolonged exposure to extreme cold. It usually occurs on the extremities. The hands, fingertips, nose, feet, ears, and toes are all common areas of frostbite. Frostbite is actually the result of the body’s response to protect the organs from extreme cold.
When people are in cold weather, typically 5 degrees F (-15 C) and below, blood vessels in the skin constrict. This helps provide more blood flow to the rest of the body, especially the organs. However, reduced blood flow to the skin means less oxygen. Lack of adequate oxygenation of the skin can lead to cell death and more than a few cells that die can be termed frostbite.
The early stages of frostbite are usually treatable. Severe freezing can result in cell death so significant that affected areas turn black. This can in turn lead to gangrene and infection. In severe cases, significant frostbite may mean amputation of injured areas to avoid gangrene and infection.
Freezing is also very painful, although some may find it difficult to feel the affected areas. They may feel numb instead of painful. Some people are more prone to frostbite than others. These include people with heart or circulatory disease, smokers and diabetics. It is also not recommended to drink alcohol and be outdoors in extremely cold conditions. Alcohol lowers body temperature rapidly, which means that people may not feel the cold very much and may get frostbite without realizing they are in danger.
Frostbite is an emerging medical condition. If you cannot get to a hospital right away due to weather conditions, you should wrap the affected areas in loose cloths. Frozen areas can also be soaked in warm water. Never use hot water as this can actually make the problem worse. Also, avoid using lotions, which could lead to infections.
If a person also shows signs of hypothermia, this is a medical emergency that takes priority over frostbite. Always treat hypothermia before tackling areas that may be frozen. Finally, make sure that all dressings used are sterile to avoid infection. As soon as possible, consult a doctor.
You can help prevent freezing by not being outside in inclement weather. Dressing in layers that aren’t cotton can help provide extra warmth. Wearing hats that cover the ears and scarves that can cover the nose, as well as warm jackets, also helps. Most suggest wearing mittens rather than mittens, as keeping your fingers together provides more warmth to your hands.
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