Frostbite (cont.)
Frostbite symptoms
The symptoms of frostbite may progress from pain/burning to numbness and eventual complete loss of sensation. Depending on the extent and time of injury, the affected area may appear pale, red, bluish/gray or black with the presence of clear or purplish colored blisters. The skin and underlying tissue may feel hard to the touch with advanced injury.
The prognosis for frostbite injuries depends on the extent of injury and whether or not there are any resultant complications from the initial injury, such as infection. It may be weeks to several months before it is possible to determine exactly how much tissue damage has occurred, and what if any tissue needs to be removed/amputated. Sometimes cold sensitivity or numbness of the affected area persists.
Who is most likely to get a cold
weather-related injury and what can be done to prevent it?
Anybody can develop a cold weather-related injury, but the young and the elderly are especially prone to these types of injuries. In the young, the small size of their extremities and their limited mobility makes them more likely to be affected while in the elderly, poor circulation and limited mobility increase their susceptibility. Individuals who work outdoors, the homeless, and those who engage in outdoor activities are also at increased risk for developing cold weather-related injuries.
Alcohol and illicit drug use make it more likely that individuals will develop a cold weather-related injury because these people may not sense that they are in danger. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism (low thyroid), psychiatric illness, and circulatory problems can also make it more likely that one will develop a cold weather-related injury.
The prevention of cold weather-related injuries is best achieved through careful preplanning and preparation for the cold, when possible.
- Dress warmly using multiple layers and adequately cover body areas prone to injury.
- Try to have an extra change of dry clothing so you can remove any wet clothing
if necessary.
- Always keep your hands and feet dry and avoid wearing tight fitting clothing on these areas as it may decrease the circulation.
- Most importantly, however, move indoors to a warmer environment when you begin to feel cold.
Next: How should frostbite and other cold weather-related injuries be treated? »
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