Literally the freezing of your skin, frostbite occurs when the body is exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures. The areas most commonly affected by frostbite are the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Superficial frostbite isn’t permanent, but deep frostbite can permanently damage the affected areas, and severe cases can lead to amputation.
Three Warning Signs for Frostbite
• White or grayish-yellow skin
• Unusually firm or waxy skin
• Numb or tingling tissue
How to Handle It
Get out of the cold as quickly as possible, but try not to walk on frostbitten feet or toes, which only increases the damage. Also, don’t rub or massage the frostbitten area.
If possible, immerse the frostbitten area in warm (not hot) water. If there’s no warm water, use body heat.
Seek professional medical help if the affected area doesn’t warm up.
