Frostbite

What is it?

Frostbite is freezing of the skin and tissue just beneath the skin. People usually get frostbitten on the hands, feet, nose, and ears. Frostbite is more likely to happen to uncovered skin when the weather is cold and windy. And, it is also more likely to happen to people who have drunk alcohol or smoked before going outside. Being tired and not eating well can also increase the chance of frostbite. It can happen more often in people with health problems, like diabetes (di-uh-b-tees) or blood vessel diseases.

Causes:

Frostbite is caused by being out in cold weather for a long time. Frostbite happens when ice forms in your skin and blood vessels.

Signs and Symptoms:

Your skin becomes very cold, then numb, hard, and pale. Your skin color changes from white to red and then purple after re-warming. You may feel pain, tingling, burning, and swelling as your skin warms.

Care:

Remove clothes from the frostbitten skin and put the injured skin in warm, not hot water. Do not rub or use the parts of your body that are frostbitten. You may need medicine for the pain or for infection.

Do's and Don'ts:

Wear warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing when out in cold weather to keep this from happening again. Cover all bare skin, including your head, before going out into cold weather, especially if it is windy. Once outside, try to stay dry. Do not drink alcohol before you go out in the cold. Do not smoke before you go out in the cold or while you are in the cold.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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