Preventing The Nip Of Frostbite
The cold weather that has gripped the nation brings with it the risk of frostbite, reports CBS News Health Correspondent Dr. Emily Senay. Here are the telltale signs, and how to prevent it.
Frostbite occurs when the skin, or even the tissue and bone beneath it, freeze. The most susceptible body parts are the extemities, such as fingers and toes. However, ear lobes, cheeks, nose, or any exposed skin are also at high risk.
Frostbite can take its toll in minutes if the temperature is cold enough. It can cause serious and permanent tissue damage and lead to amputation in severe cases.
Most at risk are the elderly and children. Kids can get frostbite within 30 seconds if it's very cold. That could affect bone growth.
Initial warning signs include:
- Tingling, stinging, or burning sensation.
- Numbness.
- Pale or blue skin color.
- Waxy or hard skin.
If you think you have gotten frostbite, the first thing to do is to get out of the cold, and preferably to a hospital emergency room for immediate professional treatment.
If you can't get out of the cold, warm breath on the affected areas, or the warmth of armpits for cold hands, will help.
If you can get indoors, treat the affected areas by immersing them in warm water and wrap warmly afterwards. Do not rub frostbitten areas, because tiny shards of ice that form in frozen tissue can cause more damage by grinding into surrounding tissue.
To avoid getting frostbite:
- Cover your ears and nose with warm clothing.
- Wear mittens or gloves.
- Wear warm socks and boots.
- Protect your face by applying petroleum jelly to exposed areas.
- Stay dry to reduce your chances of getting frostbite. Wet skin is more susceptible to frostbite.