Frostbite: What You Need to Know
Frostbite can happen when temperatures fall below 5°F. When combined with a low wind chill, frostbite can occur on exposed skin quickly (e.g., in 5°F weather with a -16.6°F windchill, frostbite can happen in 30 minutes).
Frostbite often looks similar to a thermal burn. This is because both damage body tissues similarly, and the marks they leave can be permanent. Frostbite pictures can help an individual identify the severity and stage of frostbite.
Stages of Frostbite
Similar to burns, there are several degrees of frostbite, ranging from frostnip to 4th degree frostbite.
Frostnip: This condition is milder. Symptoms include red, numb, and tingly skin. Frostnip is readily treated at home through simple measures such as bringing the individual indoors, removing any wet clothing, and placing the affected area in warm (not hot) water.
First-degree: This is similar to frostnip, except there may be some additional discoloration (typically red, but sometimes white, yellow, or pink-blue). While there are no blisters in first-degree frostbite, there is mild swelling.
Second-degree: All layers of the skin are frozen in second-degree frostbite. The outer skin may feel stiff and frozen, and the individual may experience throbbing and aching pain. Blisters form on the exposed skin within 24 hours, and red, swollen skin surrounds the blisters.
Third-degree: The skin feels harder with a third-degree frostbite than a second-degree frostbite. The skin becomes white, purplish, or blue in appearance. Blood blisters appear, and there may be shooting pain in addition to the sensations of pain felt in a second-degree frostbite.
Fourth-degree: The most severe level of frostbite, fourth-degree frostbite, is when the frostbite extends beyond the skin and into the tendons, bones, and muscles. The skin may appear dark and rubbery, and the pain is felt deeper into the affected area.
Be Prepared to Treat Frostbite
Frostbite needs immediate treatment. If you suspect that you or someone you’re with has frostbite, follow these guidelines.
- Seek medical attention as soon as you can.
- Find a warm place where there is no chance of refreezing.
- Remove damp or wet clothing.
- Warm-up under layers of dry clothing and blankets.
- Place the frostbitten area in warm water.
Take care not to “shock” the skin with too much warmth. It may be numb, so do not:
- Warm-up in front of a fireplace, space heater, or heat lamp
- Use a heating pad or electric blanket
- Rub or massage the frostbitten region
Since the skin is often numb, an individual with frostbite may not be able to feel if something is too hot, resulting in a burn.
After the skin has warmed, wrap the frostbitten area in clean bandages. Make sure to keep fingers and toes separated. Keep the skin clean so you don’t develop an infection.
Severe frostbite requires medical attention.
Summary
Frostbite can happen quickly in very cold temperatures. You can prevent frostbite by wearing warm clothing and covering vulnerable body parts, like your fingers and nose.
If you think you may have frostbite, get to a warm place as soon as you can and seek medical care. Don’t try to warm the area while you are still in a cold place. Frostbite can be treated with warm water, but avoid using hot water or heating pads. Do not rub or massage frostbite or rub snow into it.
FAQs
Q: What are the symptoms of frostbite?
A: Symptoms of frostbite include red, numb, and tingly skin, stiffness, throbbing and aching pain, blisters, and discoloration.
Q: How can I prevent frostbite?
A: You can prevent frostbite by wearing warm clothing, covering vulnerable body parts, and staying dry and warm in cold temperatures.
Q: What should I do if I suspect I have frostbite?
A: If you suspect you have frostbite, get to a warm place as soon as possible and seek medical attention. Do not try to warm the area while you are still in a cold place.