Frostbite occurs when a part of the body freezes. This may occur as shallow as the skin, or down to the body’s flesh. Frostbite is most common in the fingers, toes, and ears - areas furthest away from the body's core or center. Frostbite is normally caused by exposure to very cold weather, however it may also be caused by contact with freezing metals, ice, or very cold liquids. Frostbite is a major risk at temperatures below -15 degrees Celsius and can lead to nerve damage, gangrene infections, and loss of limbs if allowed to progress.
The best way to deal with the illness is to recognize its early signs, and take steps to stop it progressing. Frostnip is the early stage of hypothermia. It causes no permanent damage, and if recognized can be treated to prevent worse forms of frostbite.
Symptoms of Frost Nip include:
To treat this stage of frostbite, protect the area from exposure, and protect it in warm, dry clothing such as mittens or scarves.
Superficial frostbite is the name for the second stage of frostbite, which occurs when the skin begins to freeze.
Signs of superficial frostbite include:
Medical attention is needed for this stage of frostbite. When rewarming the skin, swelling, blisters, bruising, and stinging sensations may occur.
Severe or deep frostbite occurs when body tissue below the skin begins to freeze. Signs of Deep Frostbite include:
When treating severe frostbite, very large blisters may form in the affected area after re-heating it. It is essential to seek medical treatment for this condition at this stage to avoid gangrene or limb loss.