If Frostbite Strikes
Key points
- Frigid temperatures mean skin that''s exposed for too long are prone to frostbite, when affected areas feels rock hard and develops a white, waxy, or purplish appearance.
- * Seek medical care. * Come indoors immediately and remove wet clothing. * Treat frozen parts gently; don''t rub them. * Warm the frozen parts in warm water (not hot) for about 30 minutes.
- Don''t use dry heat, such as a fireplace, to thaw frostbite. * Warm your entire body by wrapping yourself in a blanket. * Place clean cotton balls between frostbitten fingers and toes after they''ve been warmed. * Loosely wrap warmed areas with clean bandages to prevent refreezing.
Frigid temperatures mean skin that''s exposed for too long are prone to frostbite, when affected areas feels rock hard and develops a white, waxy, or purplish appearance.
If you get frostbite, The Nemours Foundation advises you:
* Seek medical care.
* Come indoors immediately and remove wet clothing.
* Treat frozen parts gently; don''t rub them.
* Warm the frozen parts in warm water (not hot) for about 30 minutes. Don''t use dry heat, such as a fireplace, to thaw frostbite.
* Warm your entire body by wrapping yourself in a blanket.
* Place clean cotton balls between frostbitten fingers and toes after they''ve been warmed.
* Loosely wrap warmed areas with clean bandages to prevent refreezing.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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