Frostbite
What is frostbite?
Frostbite is the freezing of a body part. The nose, cheeks, ears, fingers, and toes are usually frostbitten first.
Who is at risk?
Frostbite can affect everyone. However, certain people are at a greater risk and need to be extra careful:
- older people
- people with disabilities who live alone
- babies and children
- people with a tall, slim build
- people with circulation problems
- people outside for long periods at a time
- people with inadequate shelter, clothing, and food
- people who drink alcohol or smoke
- people who are on certain medications
- people who take drugs
Signs and symptoms of frostbite:
- change in skin colour
- skin feels cold
- pain and swelling at the affected area
- tingling or numbness
- burning sensations
- affected area may look pale and waxy
- blisters, in severe cases
Preventing frostbite
Frostbite is preventable. There are a few steps you can take to lower the risk:
- dress in layers
- cover exposed skin
- stay warm and stay dry
- drink warm fluids—no alcohol or caffeine
- keep active, but avoid sweating
- limit the amount of time in the cold
- take warm-up breaks
- stay indoors during cold weather warnings (Government of Canada)
- watch for signs of frostbite
- help and check on others
Treating frostbite
- seek medical help
- cover area immediately
- go indoors if possible
- remove articles that may restrict circulation
- immerse the area in warm, not hot water
- warm the affected area gradually
- do not rub skin, it can cause tissue damage
- wiggle the toes and fingers
- move around
This item was last modified on June 12, 2015