Frostbite
Description
An injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. First your skin becomes very cold and red, then numb, hard and pale. Frostbite is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and chin.
Common Symptoms
- At first, cold skin and a prickling feeling
- Numbness
- Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin
- Hard or waxy-looking skin
- Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
- Blistering after rewarming, in severe cases
Common Causes
- Exposure to freezing temperatures. The risk is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and in people not dressed properly for cold weather.
Treatment Information
Gradual rewarming of the affected area using warm water. Pain medication is often necessary. Medical care is needed to monitor for complications like infection.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.