OverviewFrostbite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. In the earliest stage of frostbite, known as frostnip, there is no permanent damage to skin. Symptoms include cold skin and a prickling feeling, followed by numbness and inflamed or discolored skin. As frostbite worsens, skin may become hard or waxy-looking. Show Exposed skin in cold, windy weather is most vulnerable to frostbite, but it can affect skin covered by gloves or other clothing. You may not realize you have frostbite until someone else points it out. You can treat frostnip by rewarming. All other frostbite requires medical attention because it can permanently damage skin, muscle, bone and other tissue. SymptomsSigns and symptoms of frostbite include:
Frostbite is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and chin. Because of skin numbness, you may not realize you have frostbite until someone points it out. Changes in the color of the affected area might be difficult to see on brown or Black skin. Frostbite occurs in several stages:
When to see a doctorSeek medical attention for frostbite if you experience:
Seek emergency care for hard, cold, blotchy skin. Also get emergency medical help if you suspect hypothermia, a condition in which the body loses heat faster than it can be produced. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include:
Wrap the person with hypothermia in warm blankets until help arrives. What you can do in the meantimeWhile you wait for emergency medical help or a doctor's appointment, take appropriate self-care measures, such as:
CausesFrostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze. The most common cause of frostbite is exposure to cold-weather conditions. But it can also be caused by direct contact with ice, freezing metals or very cold liquids. Specific conditions that lead to frostbite include:
Risk factorsThe following factors increase the risk of frostbite:
ComplicationsComplications of frostbite include:
PreventionFrostbite can be prevented. Here are tips to help you stay safe and warm.
What is frostbite caused by?Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze. The most common cause of frostbite is exposure to cold-weather conditions. But it can also be caused by direct contact with ice, freezing metals or very cold liquids.
Which drug can cause frostbite?Frostbite occurs when the skin and body tissues are exposed to cold temperature for a long period of time. You are more likely to develop frostbite if you: Take medicines called beta-blockers.
Is frostbite caused by vasoconstriction?Frostbite tend to occur when the body is exposed to intense cold, resulting in vasoconstriction. The resulting decrease in blood flow fails to deliver heat to the tissues and eventually leads to ice crystal formation. Body parts most prone to frostbite include the feet, hand, ears, lips, and nose.
What causes frostbite and hypothermia?Hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature) and frostbite are both dangerous conditions that can happen when a person is exposed to extremely cold temperatures.
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