Frostbite (cont.)
How should frostbite and other cold
weather-related injuries be treated?
- The treatment for cold weather-related injuries involve removing oneself from the precipitating cold environment, with subsequent rewarming of the affected areas using moist heat.
- The use of dry heat (such as over a fire or a portable heater) can lead to
burns because of ones lack of sensation and it can also further dry out the already injured tissue.
- Avoid massaging or rubbing the affected area with snow (a common "folk remedy") as this will only aggravate the injury.
With regard to frostbite, it is important NOT to thaw the affected area if there is a risk of it re-freezing! Re-freezing will only lead to more severe damage. If you are camping or outdoors and you are unable to get indoors, leave the extremity frozen until definitive medical care can be instituted.
Rapid rewarming is the most effective treatment for cold weather-related injuries. This is accomplished by immersion of the affected area into circulating hot water that is between 40-42°C (104-108°F) for 15-30 minutes or until thawing is complete. Make sure to test the temperature of the water with a thermometer or a hand that is not frozen in order to avoid burning the injured area! There may be quite a bit of pain when the injured area is rewarmed. Acetaminophen (Tylenol and others),
aspirin (Bayer and others), naproxen (Aleve and others) or ibuprofen (Advil and others) may be used to help with the discomfort. If stronger pain medications are required, contact a healthcare provider.
Other treatments for cold-related injuries include local wound care for blisters and open sores. Keep the wounds clean and dry and avoid rupturing blisters. Topical aloe vera cream is recommended.
Next: When should I seek medical care for a cold
weather-related injury? »
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