$Unique_ID{BRK01407}
$Pretitle{Accidents, Poisoning, and Violence}
$Title{The Treatment of Frostbite}
$Subject{skin frostbite first aid}
$Volume{O-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Treatment of Frostbite


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QUESTION:  Could you please put us straight regarding the treatment of
frostbite?  While I know that rubbing the area with snow or ice is no longer
considered right, I believe you should let the part warm-up slowly, while my
friend insists that the warming process should be aided using hot water.  Who
is right?  We would appreciate your answer.

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ANSWER:  Would it surprise you if I told you that you were both a little bit
right and a little bit wrong?  You are right in stating that rubbing a
frostbitten area with snow is a no-no.  When the skin is exposed to extremes
of cold and wind, it actually freezes, as the cold penetrates the tissue.  The
area will look white, becomes hard, cold and numb.  In this state it damages
easily, specially when coarse, hard ice is rubbed across the skin.  To prevent
as much damage as possible, the frozen area should be warmed as swiftly ads
possible, but using hot water can burn or scald the skin.  The best bet is to
immerse the affected part in circulating warm water, from 104 F to 108 F for
best results.  When water is not available, contact with a warm hand or object
will help.  As the skin is rewarmed, it may become red, swollen, painful and
throbbing.  Blisters may appear that can contain bloody body fluid.  When
frostbite is this severe, medical attention is necessary, for treatment may
require analgesics for pain, antibiotics to ward off an infection and an
anti-inflammatory medication to minimize the effects of tissue injury.  Of
course, the best treatment is prevention, and knowing that both the
temperature and the wind speed may cause the injury, it makes good sense to
bundle up well, and protect all exposed surfaces from the inhospitable
environment.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
