Precautions in Treatments of Frostbite

Symptoms of Frostbite

Symptoms of frostbite include redness, swelling, burning or tingling. Appearance can go from a pale color, to redness, to whitish-purple. As the tissue further freezes, blisters can form a blackened area. Numbness will occur. As frostbite progresses to a third-degree type burn, there can be burning, throbbing and aching. Fourth-degree frostbite is the most severe, with minimal swelling, mummified tissues and sometimes aching of joints. Areas should not be rubbed while attempting to rewarm, as this causes further tissue damage. Do not rub snow onto the area.

Self-treatment of frostbite should begin as soon as the condition is suspected. Remove wet clothing and wrap affected area in dry material. Do not rub the affected area; put padding in between fingers or toes to prevent rubbing. Do not rewarm the affected area if there is a chance of refreezing, as this can cause disastrous results. If rewarming is indicated, do it quickly instead of gradually. Seek medical attention at a treatment center immediately.

Rapid warming can be done in a small whirlpool at temperatures from 104 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 30 minutes. Blisters should be debrided, and aloe vera cream applied as needed. Ibuprofen can be given for pain, unless narcotics are needed. If dehydration is present, intravenous fluids should be administered. Antibiotics may be given to prevent infection. A tetanus shot is usually given. Steroid medication may also be given.

Those with peripheral vascular disease or diabetes are in particular danger of frostbite and may have difficulties with its treatment. Smokers should be discouraged from smoking because of vascular constriction. It often takes one to three months for frostbitten tissue to be declared viable. Most often, the affected area heals or mummifies without surgical intervention. Because of this uncertainty, surgery for amputation should be delayed as long as possible, and it should only done in the most severe cases, where gangrene or unresolved infection makes it necessary.

Those who have had frostbite should be informed that they are more likely to receive another frostbite. There is a twofold to fourfold increase in risk for those who have had a previous frostbite, so they should take extra precautions not to put themselves in a possible frostbite situation.