Frostbite occurs when skin or tissue is damaged by we called “cold burns”, due to contact with extreme cold environment. When parts of the body are exposed to low temperatures for long periods of time, blood vessels constrict to help restrict blood flow and protect an individual’s core temperature. This combination of cold temperature and restricted blood flow can freeze the tissue, causing permanent damage. Most often, this freezing occurs on the outermost extremities of the body, such as on fingers and toes. Following freezing, nerve damage can occur due to loss of oxygen, and a person can lose all feeling with sensation in the frostbitten areas.

Symptoms of Frostbite

• Discoloration of the affected area of skin.
• A burning or tingling sensation.
• Numbness partial or complete.
• Intense “burning” pain

Causes of Frostbite

• Extreme cold (found in nature or in man-made products).
• Wet or damp clothing.
• Wind chill.
• Poor Circulation (caused by tight clothing, fatigue, certain medications, smoking / alcohol use, or certain diseases).
• Any combination of any of the above factors.

Treatments of Frostbite.

• Move to a warm area and contact medical professionals.
• Placed frostbite area into warm water, not hot water.
• The frostbitten areas should be wrapped, but not rubbed or massaged, as this will cause more damage to the skin.
• Slapping the skin was done traditionally to start the flow of blood, but it can also cause more damage than assistance.
• In some severe cases, gangrene may occur if blood vessels become damaged, and in a few situations, amputation is necessary.