Treatment for Frostbite
June 25, 2008
Frostbite is the temporary (superficial) or permanent (deep) skin tissue damage caused by prolonged skin-tissue temperature of 23 degrees F and below. Frostbite is the freezing of skin and damage to underlying blood vessels upon exposure to extreme cold. Blood flow halts in frostbitten skin, and the area must be thawed and rewarmed swiftly to prevent tissue death (gangrene) and infection. The ears, nose, hands, and feet are particularly susceptible.
Treatment for frostbite must begin immediately, ideally by emergency medical personnel. If medical help is not available, find shelter and give first aid as quickly as possible. Soften the affected area by one of these methods. Immerse the area in warm water (about 105 degrees F, or 40 degrees C). Dry and cover the area with warm clothes and then layers of blankets. Warm the area with warm parts of the body, such as the armpits or abdomen.
The person with frostbite should drink hot fluids such as coffee or tea. Never drink alcohol or smoke. Never rub, apply snow to, or put intense, direct heat on the frostbitten areas. If the feet or toes are frozen, do not walk on them and keep the feet raised.
Wrap the area in clean bandages, separating fingers and toes. It is very important to keep the skin clean in order to avoid infection. After the area has been re-warmed, the skin will be discolored and will blister. The blisters should not be broken, and should be covered using a sterile dressing.
If the frostbite is superficial, new pink skin will form underneath the discolored skin. The area will usually recover within six months, although some people have permanent problems, such as pain, numbness, and stiffness in the affected area. Another treatment for frostbite is, physiotherapy which can be used to improve blood circulation.
If the frostbite is more severe, gangrene may develop in the affected area, and it will turn a blue or black colour. The damage is then permanent, and the affected part will usually require amputation.
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