Monthly Health Articles Archive

Avoid frostbite and frostnip this winter

Outdoor sports are part of the fun of wintertime, but don’t forget to be safe when the temperature drops.  When the thermometer dips below freezing, outdoor activities can quickly turn from frosty fun into frost nip and frostbite.

Frost nip usually affects areas of the body that are exposed to the winter elements, such as the nose, cheeks, ears, fingers or toes.  Frost nip leaves the skin red and numb or sometimes tingly and can be treated at home.  Start by immediately getting the affected person indoors and remove all wet clothing.  Immerse the chilled body parts in warm, but not hot, water for 20 minutes or until all the sensation returns.  The water temperature is especially important.  Don’t let the affected person control the temperature during the re-warming process.  Their numb hands won’t feel the heat of the hot water, which can cause burns if the temperature is too hot. 

Frostbite is more serious than frost nip and requires immediate medical attention.  It is characterized by white, waxy skin that feels numb and hard.  Get yourself or your child into dry clothing in a warm environment and contact your health care provider.  If you can’t get to a hospital right away, give the person a warm drink and begin the following first aid treatments.

Although it would seem to be a good idea, do not use direct heat such as fire or a heating pad to thaw the frozen areas.  As with treating frost nip, immerse the frozen areas in warm water or apply a warm compress.  If you don’t have access to warm water, wrap the area gently in warm blankets.  Also, if the body parts are at risk for refreezing, do not attempt to thaw them, as this could cause severe tissue damage.  Avoid rubbing the frostbitten skin.  When the re-warming process begins, person will feel a burning sensation.  The skin may blister, swell and turn colors of red, blue or purple.  When the skin is pink and no longer numb, the area has thawed.  If possible, apply sterile dressing to the area, trying not to disturb any blisters that may have formed.  Wrap the thawed areas to prevent any refreezing.

The best way to avoid these frosty ailments is to focus on prevention.  Cold and wind chill can affect a person very quickly.  When children play outside, dress them in layers and make sure they come indoors often enough to stay warm.  When driving conditions are poor, have appropriate winter gear for your head, hands and feet when you travel in case of an accident that requires you to leave your vehicle.  Also, when going outside wear warm clothing, even for just a quick trip to the mailbox.  Sometimes the simplest mistakes, such as slipping or locking yourself out of the house, can have serious consequences in cold weather. By taking the necessary preventative measures to avoid frostbite or frost nip, you can enjoy the winter to the fullest – no matter how long it lasts.