It is still bitterly cold in a large portion of the US. It is 13F on my thermometer right now, and that is significantly higher than it was when we got up this morning! Playing in the snow can be irresistible for kids and some adults as well, and I’m all for it. But you need to prepare for the cold temperatures to protect you and your children from frostbite. It happens faster than you might expect.
What Is Frostbite?
Frostbite is a type of injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues, most often affecting extremities such as fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. When exposed to very cold temperatures, your body redirects blood flow to keep your core warm, leaving these areas vulnerable. Prolonged exposure can lead to tissue damage, and in severe cases, permanent injury or amputation may occur.
Who Is at Risk for Frostbite?Anyone can develop frostbite, but certain groups are more susceptible, including:
- Children and older adults
- People with poor blood circulation or medical conditions like diabetes
- Individuals who spend long periods outdoors, such as hikers, skiers, and outdoor workers
- Those without proper clothing or shelter in cold weather
What Are the Symptoms of Frostbite?
Recognizing the signs early is crucial for preventing lasting damage. Symptoms of frostbite can include:
- A feeling of prickling, cold, pain, or numbness in the affected area
- Red, white, bluish-white, or grayish-yellow skin
- Hard or waxy-looking skin
- Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
- Blistering after rewarming in severe cases
If you notice these symptoms, seek a warm environment immediately and contact a healthcare provider.
How Can Frostbite Be Prevented?
Prevention is the best defense against frostbite. Here are some effective strategies:
- Dress in several loose, warm layers and cover all exposed skin. Fabrics that wick moisture away are ideal for layers closest to skin.
- Wear insulated gloves, socks, boots, and hats, and top that off with a scarf.
- Stay dry; wet clothing increases heat loss.
- Limit time outdoors in extreme cold, wind, or wet weather. Let kids play outside for short periods, coming in to warm up frequently.
- Stay active to keep blood flowing but avoid exhaustion
- Seek shelter and warmth if you begin to feel cold or numb
What Should You Do If You Suspect Frostbite?
If you think you or someone else has frostbite, take these steps:
- Move to a warm place immediately
- Remove wet clothing and replace with dry, warm items
- Warm the affected area gently using body heat or warm (but not hot) water
- Avoid rubbing or massaging the area, which can cause further damage
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible
Prompt treatment can prevent serious complications and increase the chances of full recovery.
If you have any questions about frostbite, please log into your account and send us your question. We are here to help.
Dr. Anita Bennett MD – Health Tip Content Editor