Frostbite (also known as cold burn) is caused by exposure to the extreme cold. It most commonly affects the nose, fingers, or toes. Frostbite can be extremely dangerous, and result in the loss of extremities, as well as have other damaging effects.
Prevention
Prevent the onset of frostbite by:
- Wearing warm clothes to protect your skin from the cold, including a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots
- Refraining from smoking or consuming alcohol prior to being exposed to the cold for long periods
- Taking frequent rest periods to warm up, when working for extended periods of time in the cold
Stages of Frostbite
Frostbite occurs in three stages:
Signs & Symptoms |
|
Stage 1
|
· Cold, numb and white skin
· Tingling sensation in affected area(s) · Skin will hurt/tingue when re-warmed · No permanent damage |
Stage 2
|
· Affected area will feel warm (although it is still cold)
· Blistered skin when affected area is re-warmed · Swelling and itching in affected area · Affects the top layers of skin and tissue |
Stage 3
|
· Numb area with no sensation of cold or discomfort
· Affected muscles and joints may stop working · White skin that turns purplish blue when it is re-warmed · Blood-blisters that turn into thick black scabs |
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Fever
- Normal colour in skin does not return after being rewarmed
- Loss of sensation in affected area
- Appearance of skin blisters
Comments are closed.