We’ve talked about hypothermia before (check that post out on our website) but let’s not forget her sister condition: frostbite. Frostbite, or injury caused by freezing, usually affects the extremities—nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes. It can cause permanent damage and, in severe cases, result in amputation.
When out in the cold, keep an eye out for the symptoms of frostbite: beginning with redness or pain, skin may move to being white or grayish, feeling unusually firm, and feeling numb. The signs are subtle, but important, so watch out for yourself and your companions. If you notice signs of frostbite on yourself or someone else, move to a warm area and heat the skin with body heat (ex putting fingers in armpit) or warm water, but be careful—it’s very easy to accidentally burn areas experience numbness. Avoid distressing affected areas by walking on affected feet/toes or massaging extremities to warm them, which might cause additional damage. Most importantly, seek medical attention and watch out for the even more dangerous condition of hypothermia.
How to prevent frostbite? Be prepared for cold weather! Dress appropriately if you’re heading out, even in your car—you never know if you may break down and need to wait for help to arrive. Limit your time outside in especially cold and wet or windy weather. Protect your vulnerable extremities with hats, headbands, mittens (which hold heat better than gloves), face coverings like masks or scarfs, socks, and shoes with good water resistence.
Stay safe, stay warm, and have a wonderful winter!
