Tag: Frostbite

For those who spend a lot of time outdoors at this time of year when temperatures are at their very coldest, either for work or pleasure, the risk of frostbite is very real. Frostbite is a potentially very serious skin condition that occurs when skin is exposed in freezing temperatures. In extremely frigid weather, your fingers, hands, toes, feet, nose and ears can freeze in as few as five minutes.

To prevent yourself from getting frostbite, it’s important to know the symptoms and how avoid getting frostbite if you will be outdoors in extreme cold.

Signs of Frostbite

Symptoms of frostbite depend on how deep it goes into the body. There are three stages. Early frostbite affects the top layers of the skin. More advanced cases can go all the way through to the muscles and bones.

Frostnip

• Skin turns a pale color
• It may itch, sting, burn, go numb, or feel like “pins and needles.”

Superficial Frostbite

• Skin becomes hard
• It looks shiny or waxy
• When the skin thaws, blisters filled with fluid or blood form

Severe (deep) frostbite

• Skin is very hard and cold to the touch
• Skin darkens quickly. It may look blue and later turn black

According to Erik C. Alexander, a board-certified dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, “It is critical to seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of severe frostbite; have increased pain, swelling, redness or discharge in the area that was frostbitten; or if you have a fever.”

Preventing Frostbite
Follow the tips below to protect yourself from frostbite.

• Limit time you’re outdoors in cold, wet or windy weather.
• Dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing.
• Wear a hat or headband that fully covers your ears.
• Wear mittens rather than gloves.
• Wear socks and sock liners that fit well, wick moisture and provide insulation.
• Watch for signs of frostbite.
• Carry emergency supplies and warm clothing in case you become stranded.
• Don’t drink alcohol if you plan to be outdoors in cold weather.
• Eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated.
• Keep moving.

Your Local Skin Experts at Forefront Dermatology are here to Help
Establishing a relationship with a board-certified dermatologist is an important step you should take to keep your skin healthy, especially if you suffer from an itchy, painful, or irritating skin condition. If you or a family member have a skin concern or would like to schedule a consult, find the Forefront dermatologist nearest you to schedule an appointment or to learn more.

Winter often sneaks up on us, with its blustery cold, snow and wind, but for many of us, being outdoors is a necessity or even an enjoyable pastime. If you are planning a winter ski trip, other outdoor sports, work outdoors, or spend a lot of time outside in the winter for any reason, it is important to keep yourself and your family prepared by taking certain measures to plan ahead and stay safe. Even short periods of time outdoors in very cold temperatures or extreme snow and wind can be dangerous.

Outdoor activities can expose you to several safety hazards, but you can take these steps to prepare for them:

Dress Appropriately for the Temperature and Conditions
Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.

Sunscreen Is Important in All Seasons
No, sunscreen isn’t just for summertime. Winter sun can still damage your skin, and it also reflects off the surface of snow. Try applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and your hands (if they’re exposed) about 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply frequently if you are staying outside for a long time.

Watch for Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite
According to Erik C. Alexander, a board-certified dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, “recognizing the early warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia are key to being able to treat them safely and successfully. Signs of frostbite are pale, red, grey or blistered skin on the fingers, ears, nose, and toes sometimes associated with numbness or pain. It can often be difficult to recognize until the areas are warmed back up. If you think you have frostbite get indoors and put the affected area in warm (not hot) water. Signs of hypothermia are shivering, slurred speech, and unusual clumsiness. If you think you have hypothermia call 9-1-1 immediately.”

Protect Your Hands
The skin on your hands is more susceptible to drying, especially in cold, dry weather. This can lead to itchiness and cracking. Wear gloves when you go outside; if you need to wear wool to keep your hands warm, slip on a thin cotton glove first, to avoid any irritation the wool might cause.

Your Local Skin Experts at Forefront Dermatology are here to Help
Establishing a relationship with a board-certified dermatologist is an important step you should take to keep your skin healthy, especially if you suffer from an itchy, painful, or irritating skin condition. If you or a family member have a skin concern or would like to schedule a consult, find the Forefront dermatologist nearest you to schedule an appointment or to learn more.