Frostbite can be defined as the damage to the skin and the deeper tissues of the body, on being exposed to extreme cold, for a longer period of time. In freezing condition, below 0 deg C, blood vessels closer to the skin start contracting. This reduces the blood flow to certain body parts, to dangerously low levels. If left to prevail for long, the cold and reduced blood flow can freeze the affected body part and cause severe tissue injury. Frostbite usually develops during extreme cold conditions, when the air temperature is below -12°C (10°F). High winds, dampness, or general chilling of the body may also lead to frostbite, when the temperature is near to the freezing point (0°C/32°F). The body parts likely to be injured are hands, feet, noses, and ears. The person suffering from frostbite cannot "feel" frostbitten body parts, since they become numb. Once identified, immediately treatment should be provided, to prevent further damage to the tissues. Read on to get some tips on treating frostbite.
How To Treat Frostbite
How To Treat Frostbite
- Immediately remove the injured person from cold conditions.
- Immerse the frostbitten body part in a shallow container, filled with lukewarm water.
- The temperature of water may quickly drip, since it is lukewarm and not hot. So, keep on changing the water frequently.
- Throughout the process, try to keep the temperature of water as consistent as possible.
- It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to make the affected tissues soft and supple once again.
- After the tissues get considerably pliable, prepare a bath of water mixed with small amount of antiseptic liquid soap.
- Immerse the affected body part in the container for about 5 minutes. This is to minimize any possible risk of infection.
- Air-dry the injured area (which is thawed now) and apply antiseptic cream/ointment on it.
- Next time, when you are in extreme cold conditions, take the necessary precautions so that you don't suffer from frostbite. Wear personal protective equipments such as gloves, socks, etc.
