When a tissue freezes, due to prolonged exposure to cold, frostbite occurs, usually affecting the extremities, such as the fingers or toes, ears or nose. Freezing can cause permanent damage to the affected tissues and in the worst case could lead to amputation of the damaged areas. In most cases, frostbite can be avoided by following appropriate precautions.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Dress appropriately
Step 1. Do not wear traditional gloves but those with two pockets (one for the thumb and another for the other four fingers)
Step 2. Wear many thin layers of clothing rather than a couple of thick pieces
It is a common mistake to believe that clothes prevent cold air from entering your body. Rather, they act as a thermal insulator. Many layers will mean a lot of resistance.
Step 3. Make sure you wrap the babies in extra layers and bring them indoors every hour to warm them
Children are very prone to frostbite because they lose heat faster than adults.
Step 4. Make sure your footwear is not too tight
Step 5. Wear a cap and / or balaclava to protect your ears and nose
Step 6. Wear waterproof shoes if you plan to find yourself in the snow or get wet
Method 2 of 2: What to Do When Outdoors
Step 1. Find shelter if you run into a severe storm or are exposed to extreme cold
Freezing can begin to manifest very quickly if you are exposed to low temperatures, strong winds, or precipitation.
Step 2. Keep your clothes dry, paying particular attention to socks and gloves
Bring spare parts or dry them if they get wet.
Step 3. Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes, both of which increase your sensitivity to cold
Step 4. Check the extremities periodically for any early signs of frostbite
First signs of frostbite:
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First signs of frostbite: painful sensation, red skin, skin responds normally to pressure.
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Superficial frostbite (I degree): Numb, white or greyish-yellowish skin, the skin is still soft.
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Freezing (II degree): Numbness, white or greyish-yellowish skin. The skin appears pale and unusually hard.
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Step 5. Learn how to treat frostbite
If you start to feel the first signs of frostbite, start treatment as soon as possible. Read the related article for more information.
Advice
- In winter, wool or synthetic wool are preferable to cotton, as, being hygroscopic, it tends to absorb moisture which, evaporating, makes the skin colder.
- If a person is affected by both hypothermia and frostbite, worry about hypothermia first.
- Remember the saying: "Wool is warm and Cotton kills".
