Treatment of Frostbite and Frost Nip

With the pleasures of being outdoors in the winter comes the dangers too. One of the dangers of cold weather is frostbite and frost nip. It doesn't matter if you are an outdoorsman or just enjoying a quiet winter walk you could become a victim. So know what to look for and how to protect yourself from the cold.

When the skin is exposed to the cold weather you can become frostbit or get frost nip. Frostbite is much worse than frost nip, but both are warning signs of serious injuries to the skin and area of the body effected. Once you are aware you are in danger you can treat each right away. If done correctly and quickly you will be able to save yourself pain and the possible loss of a body part.

Areas most often affected are the fingers, toes, nose, ears and cheeks. You will notice a numbing of the area first and then the skin will begin to turn a white color with a waxy feel. Once this happens seek medical attention right away, but if you are not near a hospital you will have to treat yourself or the person with you.

First get indoors if possible and remove all wet clothing. Put on dry clothing and cover the affected area with dry, warm cloth. Be careful that the cloth you use is warm and dry, not hot. Do not expose the area to direct heat such as an electric blanket turned too high or a fireplace too close. You want to warm the area slowly.

Immerse the area in warm water whenever possible. Do not let the person affected choose the temperature of the water because they will not be able to judge the heat because of numbness. If the water is too hot you can do more damage. Soak the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time then remove and dry with a warm cloth. When feeling begins to return you are going to need an over the counter pain killer. With the return of feeling comes pain as the nerve endings begin to feel sensation.

Never rub the skin hard. If it is frozen you could accidentally rub off skin or break off a finger or other parts. You want the whole body to warm. Try to keep still and just let the warmth take over as much as possible. Keep changing the dry warm coverings for new warmth. Place sterile cloth between toes and fingers as they begin to thaw.

The best way to avoid frostbite or frost nip is to take precaution before you go out in cold weather. Dress in layers and always keep the hands covered. Mittens are best because they will let your fingers touch each other and provide better use of body heat. Keep the head, ears and neck covered with a warm hat and scarf. Whenever you are going to be out for more than a few minutes it is wise to use a face cover to protect the face from frostbite. Always take breaks if you are working or hiking outside and find warm shelter until your skin is normal temperature.

You can enjoying the outdoors and work in a cold environment, but you must always be aware of the dangers of frostbite. Have fun skiing, snowboarding, sledding or shoveling the endless driveway, but remember to take breaks for your physical health as well as your mental health.