Look For These Warning Signs Of Frostbite

Frostbite is caused when skin is exposed to cold and windy temperatures for extended periods. As the fingers, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin are the areas of the body most frequently exposed to the elements, it is most common to have frostbite in these areas. There are several stages of frostbite. The mildest stage creates skin irritation and redness while the most severe stage results in tissue death. Frostbite can be a dire condition, and as such, it is essential to recognize the warning signs, as well as engage in methods to prevent frostbite from occurring.

Blisters Filled With Blood

Prolonged exposure to cold and wind can decrease the flow of blood throughout the body. Without this oxygen-rich blood, tissues within the body begin to die, causing cell damage. When the damaged tissue is rewarmed, the damaged blood vessels may transport blood and proteins into the damaged tissue causing blisters filled with blood. Blisters filled with blood that form forty-eight hours after exposed areas have been rewarmed are indications frostbite has penetrated beyond the epidermis and moved further into deeper tissue.

Puncturing the blisters to extricate the fluid is not advised, as this can increase the risk for infection. Instead, individuals who experience blood blisters should wrap the affected area, changing the bandages frequently, until the area has healed and returned to normal.

Affected Area Feels Cold And Firm

In more serious cases of frostbite, the affected area feels cold and firm. This is an indication of deeper tissue penetration beyond the epidermal level. Outside of the area feeling cold and firm, the skin may appear pale or white, or in cases of severe frostbite, blue or black, as the underlying tissue is decreased of oxygen and begins to die. The muscles and bones may become stiff, decreasing the ability to move. In these cases, simple warming of the area will not be enough to stop the damage and re-warming should be done under the care of a physician.