Frostbite

Alternative names:

cold exposure extremities

Definition:

Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by extreme cold.

Considerations:

A person with frostbite on the extremities may also be subject to hypothermia (lowered body temperature). Check for hypothermia and treat those symptoms first.

Frostbite is distinguishable by the hard, pale, and cold quality of the skin that has been exposed to the cold for a length of time. The area is likely to lack sensitivity to touch, although there is probably a sharp, aching pain. As the area thaws, the flesh becomes red and painful.

Any part of the body may be affected by frostbite; but hands, feet, nose and ears are the most vulnerable. If only the skin and underlying tissues are damaged, recovery may be complete. However, if blood vessels are affected, the damage is permanent and gangrene can follow which may necessitate amputation of the affected part.

Upon warming, it is common to experience pain and tingling or burning in the affected area. In addition, blisters (in severe cases), shivering, slurred speech, and some memory loss may occur.

Common causes:

Frostbite occurs when the skin and body tissues are exposed to cold temperature for a prolonged period of time. Hands, feet, noses and ears are most likely to be affected.

Although anyone who is exposed to freezing cold for a prolonged period of time can get frostbite, people who are taking beta-blockers, which decrease the flow of blood to the skin, are particularly susceptible. So are people with atherosclerosis (a disorder of the arteries). Other things that increase the risk of frostbite include: smoking, windy weather (which increases the chill factor), diabetes mellitus, and peripheral neuropathy or Raynaud's phenomenon.

Update Date: 10/08/99

Updated by: adam.com editorial