$Unique_ID{BRK00376}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Frostnip and Frostbite}
$Subject{frost nip bite cold}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Frostnip and Frostbite


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QUESTION:  During a recent skiing vacation, one of the instructors kept
harping on the prevention of "frostnip".  We thought it was a cute term for
"frostbite" but after returning home began to wonder if it represented some
other problem.  Have you ever come across this term, or know what it refers
to?

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ANSWER:  A true frostbite, improperly treated or ignored, may take a large
chunk of tissue as its price.  A "frostnip" is a little bite if you will and
refers to a superficial, or less damaging frostbite.  Frostnip only affects
the surface cells of the body, and with proper care, no tissue is lost.
Though the affected tissue may look white and waxen, and feel cold, it is
still soft and springy to the touch.  The frozen part should be warmed
promptly, but never rubbed with snow, or even massaged vigorously, as this
friction can break the skin and open the path to infections.  Warm water, or
the body heat obtained from an unaffected hand may be used to gradually return
the tissue to normal.  Of course prevention is the best method of treating any
cold injury, with proper clothing as the first line of defense.  A bit of
reading on this subject before you next outing seems advisable.

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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.
