Frostbite

Frostbite is skin damage caused by freezing temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). You’re more likely to get frostbite in any situation that leads to prolonged cold exposure:

• During the winter.
• In windy weather conditions.
• At high altitudes.
• If you don’t have shelter from the cold weather.

You can get frostbite even under cold-weather clothing.

Frostbite may lead to permanent, irreversible tissue damage (necrosis). A way to prevent frostbite is to limit your time outdoors and warm up your body often if you’re exposed to freezing temperatures.

If you believe you have frostbite, go inside or seek shelter from the cold. Then, call your healthcare provider or visit the emergency room immediately to reduce your risk of tissue damage.

Who does frostbite affect?

Frostbite can affect anyone with exposure to cold temperatures. It’s most common on your fingers, toes, nose and ears. You’re more likely to get frostbite with prolonged cold exposure, especially if you:

• Are younger than 18 years of age or are over 65 years of age.
• Live and work in cold climates.
• Are without housing.
• Have an underlying medical condition like peripheral vascular disease, malnutrition, Raynaud’s syndrome, hypothyroidism, arthritis or diabetes.
• Smoke tobacco products.

How common is frostbite?

Frostbite is common, but it’s less common than it used to be. This is because people have better access to cold-weather clothing and know more about the dangers of frostbite and how to prevent it.

What are the stages of frostbite?

Frostbite symptoms appear in three stages that include feeling:

1. Cold, sore and painful (frostnip).
2. Pins and needles (surface frostbite).
3. Numbness (deep frostbite).

If you notice any of the symptoms of the second or third stages of frostbite, get immediate medical treatment to prevent long-lasting damage.