7 Frostbite Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Updated: Jan. 08, 2021
If you spend any time outdoors in the winter, getting to know the symptoms of frostbite is essential. While the skin condition varies in severity, it’s easier to contract than you’d think. Here are the frostbite signs and symptoms that require immediate attention.
Red or sore skin
Common areas where frostbite occurs are the fingers, toes, cheeks, nose, ears, and chin. Make sure to be aware of these areas when looking for frostbite symptoms. If any of these turn red, that’s a sign of frostnip, an early warning sign of frostbite. Frostnip doesn’t permanently damage the skin, but it’s a signal to seek warm shelter quickly. Another frostnip symptom might include the skin feeling very cold to the touch.
Prickling feeling, like “pins and needles”
If you don’t warm up after frostnip has kicked in, frostbite will enter its early stages. At that point, exposed skin may become numb or start to itch, burn, or sting. (Because of the numbness, many people can’t tell when frostbite has set in. To avoid the condition worsening, pay attention to the colour and texture of the exposed skin.)
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Hard, waxy skin
Prolonged exposure will lead to skin hardening, a frostbite symptom that indicates possible tissue damage. The area may also start to look shiny or waxy. If you warm up during this intermediate stage of frostbite, also called superficial frostbite, water- or blood-filled blisters will form. Quickly seek medical attention to ensure there’s no lasting skin damage. Any continued exposure to the cold will lead to the advanced stage of frostbite, which can cause the affected tissue to die.
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Warm up the right way
As soon as you spot a warning sign of frostbite, head to a warm place immediately. Then, soak the affected areas in warm water or cover them with a warm washcloth for about 30 minutes. If possible, have someone else check the water temperature. (Your skin has likely already gone numb, which makes it difficult to judge if the water is too hot.) As your skin starts to thaw, it could become red and you might feel a tingling sensation, which is just your regular blood flow being restored.
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Prevent frostbite properly
To keep frostbite from setting in at all, bundle up with loose layers of clothing. The initial layer should keep you dry, the next with materials that insulate, and the top layer should be wind- and waterproof. If you start to sweat, unzip your coat a bit to dry off. Just as important: a cozy hat, thick socks, waterproof shoes, insulated gloves, and earmuffs.
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Stay hydrated
Dehydration increases the risk of frostbite too, according to Mayo Clinic. Even if you aren’t thirsty, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends drinking a glass of water before heading outside for any activity, especially exercise. (Check out these other surprising health benefits of staying hydrated.) Make sure to avoid alcohol as well since it’s dehydrating and can make the body lose heat more quickly, Healthline reports. Don’t forget to eat before going out into the cold to also keep your body warm.
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Keep your body moving
If you’re outside for a longer period of time, keep your body moving to help warm your core. Try doing jumping jacks or moving your arms to get your blood flowing and help you stay warm. Just don’t overdo it since you’ll need your energy in the cold weather.
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