The winter can be an enjoyable time of year as it allows us to participate in a variety of outdoor activities specific to the season. While taking part in these activities there is something of which we must be aware. That something is frostbite.
Frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissue. The most common cause of frostbite is cold temperatures which can be made even more damaging by windy conditions. The risk of frostbite increases when temperatures are -15 degrees or lower. The fingers, toes, nose, cheeks and chin are the most common areas affected. Frostbite can happen to unexposed skin as well as exposed skin. Touching frozen objects can also cause frostbite. Damage to the skin is a result of ice crystals forming in the liquid part of the skin cells. This process can cause the cells to break and die.
Frostbite occurs in stages.
The least severe form is called frostnip. At this level the skin gets very cold and possibly becomes numb or produces a tingly feeling. If the condition is recognized at this level and treated there will not be any permanent skin damage. The first aid for frost nip is to get out of the cold as soon as possible and gently warm the skin. The warming process could be using body heat, hands under the arm pits for example or placing the affected area in a warm water bath. The temperature of the bath must not be hot. The best suggestion is that the water be just warm to the touch. Do not rub or massage the affected area. During the warming period there can be tingling and some pain. Depending on the degree of the injury there could also be some swelling.
The next stage after frostnip is superficial frostbite. The cold skin that may have turned reddish now becomes white or pale in colour. If the skin starts to feel warm this indicates the possibility of serious skin involvement. The actions to be taken are the same as before. During the warming process the skin may appear mottled and there could be stinging or burning sensations as well as swelling. At this level it is possible that blisters may form 12 to 36 hours after warming.
As frostbite progresses it affects all the layers of the skin including the tissues under it. The skin can become white or bluish-gray and become numb to sensations of cold and discomfort. This is a serious situation. The warming process is the same. After warming the affected tissue turns black in colour and hard to the touch. Medical assistance is definitely required.
To enjoy the winter weather there are a number of things to keep in mind that will help reduce the risk of frostbite. First and foremost, check the weather forecast and present conditions. This is the easiest way to decide if you want to be outdoors. Dress in layers as air is trapped between the layers of clothing and this air acts as insulation. The outer layer should be wind protective and even perhaps water proof. The under layers should be able to remove perspiration from the skin. The head should have a covering that covers the ears and as much of the face as is reasonable but does not interfere with vision. Mitts are better than gloves in terms of keeping hands warm. Double layer mitts are even better. An example would be woolen mitts inside a pair of leather mitts. Socks are an important consideration. They should be insulatory in nature but not so thick that they make the foot fit tightly in the footwear. The feet and toes have to be able to move comfortably. The sock material should wick moisture away from the skin.
By taking a few precautions, being observant of each other and wearing suitable clothing, the outdoors in winter can be a wonderful experience.
