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Frostbite develops after prolonged exposure to subfreezing temperatures or to forceful winds with low temperatures. Blood vessels near the surface of the skin constrict to preserve internal body heat. This reduces the blood supply to the skin. As a result, skin tissue freezes and dies. Skin can also freeze to the surface of a metal object. Health problems that reduce circulation or weaken the body increase the risk of frostbite.
Never massage or rub frostbitten areas and do not apply any ointments. Treatment varies with the type of frostbite. FROSTNIP (FIRST-DEGREE): The skin turns white and numb, and then swells and becomes painful. Burning, itching or peeling may occur. The nose, ears, hands, or feet are usually affected. Getting out of the cold and gradually warming the area are the treatments. FROSTBITE: If frostnip is not treated, the affected area will become red, swollen, and painful. In severe cases of frostbite, the skin turns blue or black, and the pain disappears. TEMPORARY FIRST AID includes getting out of the cold and loosening or removing wet clothing and jewellery. Then: - slowly warm the area by soaking it in lukewarm water (37-40 degrees Celsius, or no hotter than can be comfortably tolerated by the caregiver)
- avoid dry heat and campfires and do not rub snow on the affected area
- once thawed, gently cleanse, dry, and wrap the frostbitten area in sterile bandages
Care should be taken to avoid bruising the skin or tissue and to prevent infection. Emergency medical care should be obtained as soon as possible. WAYS TO PREVENT FROSTBITE: - Wear adequate clothing to protect the skin. Wear several layers of warm clothing that will block wind, keep moisture away from the skin, and maintain body heat
- Cover your hands, feet, nose, ears, and head. Wear mittens (not gloves), wool socks, a neck muffler to cover the nose, and a hat with ear protection.
- Allow your body time to adjust from a warm climate to a cold one.
- Remain indoors during unusually cold or windy days or keep outside trips short.
- Do not drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes before going into the cold or while in it.
- Keep your skin dry. Wet skin freezes faster than dry skin.
Article #4582 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
