Frostbite and Hypothermia
Written by: Tiana Whitely, M.S.
Graphics by: Arthur Perpall III & Jalysa Ellis
As frigid temperatures arrive, people begin to bundle up in their warmest winter apparel to stay cozy. However, prolonged exposure to freezing weather can lead to serious cold-weather injuries like frostbite and hypothermia. Learn how to prevent these dangerous conditions and treat them if they do occur.
What is Frostbite?
Frostbite happens when skin and underlying tissues freeze. It most often affects the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. Frostbite can permanently damage body tissue, and severe cases can lead to amputation.
Symptoms of frostbite include:
● Reduced blood flow to hands and feet (fingers or toes can look white, waxy or grayish yellow)
● Numbness and tingling sensation
● Hard or waxy-feeling skin
● Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
● Blistering after rewarming affected areas
Here is a visual of the stages of frostbite:
Preventing Frostbite
You can avoid frostbite by taking these precautions when temperatures are frigid:
● Wear layers. Multiple thin layers trap warm air between them. Inner layers wick moisture away while outer layers repel water.
● Cover up. Protect any exposed skin, especially fingers, toes, ears, cheeks, and nose. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat and scarf or face mask.
● Take frequent breaks indoors. Warm up numb fingers and toes.
● Stay dry. Wet clothing or gloves lose insulation value, so change out of any damp items.
● Avoid constricting clothing. Tight gloves, boots or elastic at wrists or ankles can restrict circulation.
● Don't smoke or drink alcohol. Both cause blood vessel constriction, reducing blood flow to extremities.
● Move around. Exercise keeps blood flowing well. Don't stand still for too long.
Recognizing and Treating Frostbite
If you suspect frostbite, get indoors and warm up right away. Gently rewarm affected areas with body heat or by soaking in warm (not hot) water. Never rub or massage frozen tissue because it can cause more damage! Seek medical care for severe or blistering frostbite.
What is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia sets in when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing dangerously low body temperature. It can happen whenever temperatures are below normal. One of the main groups of people especially vulnerable are the elderly.
Early signs of hypothermia include:
● Shivering
● Lack of coordination, fumbling hands
● Slurred speech
● Memory loss
● Exhaustion
Later signs:
● Drowsiness
● Weak pulse
● Slow, shallow breathing
● Loss of consciousness
Preventing Hypothermia
● Dress appropriately. Wear synthetic or wool fabrics (avoid cotton); layer for insulation; cover head, hands, and feet.
● Stay dry. Change out of wet clothes immediately. Even damp fabric can accelerate heat loss.
● Take breaks out of the cold. Warm up in heated buildings; have a hot drink.
● Fuel up. Eat high-calorie foods and stay hydrated.
● Avoid alcohol. It gives a false sense of warmth while increasing heat loss.
● Be careful with medications. Some drugs like sedatives can inhibit shivering.
Treating Hypothermia
If you notice hypothermia symptoms, get the person to shelter and wrap them in blankets or a sleeping bag. Give them something warm to drink (but not alcohol) and high energy food. Rewarm very gently; rubbing or massaging could trigger cardiac arrest. Prevent further heat loss until fully recovered. Seek medical help for severe cases.
Knowing the difference between Frostbite and Hypothermia
The bottom line is frostbite is a localized cold injury while hypothermia is a systemic drop in core body temperature. Knowing how to recognize and treat both can be critical for staying safe in freezing weather.
Don't let the winter catch you unprepared! By following the prevention tips above with proper precautions, you can still enjoy wintertime adventures!
