B.U. Bridge is published by the Boston University Office of University Relations.

Contact Us

Staff

When winter fun isn't: avoiding frostbite

When I go on a ski trip, even if the weather seems nice, the ski patrol warns about frostbite. Does frostbite occur that easily?

Frostbite, one of the hazards of winter recreation, occurs when the skin or extremities are exposed to extremely cold temperatures. It can happen quickly and people sometimes mistake early indications of frostbite for the discomfort associated with exposure to the cold. Frostbite, however, can cause permanent damage, and in severe cases, amputation of the affected area is the only treatment.

According to emergency physicians at Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, frostbite begins with extreme redness, followed by a loss of feeling and color in the affected area. Frostbite usually shows up on the extremities – the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes.

At first, frostbitten areas may appear red, similar to how skin often looks when someone has been outside on a cold day. It’s important, though, that people get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin at the first signs of redness or pain. Those with reduced blood circulation are at increased risk for developing frostbite.

The following may also indicate frostbite:

• a white or grayish-yellow skin area

• skin that feels unusually firm or waxy

• numbness.

People who have been out in the cold and suspect symptoms of frostbite should seek medical care immediately. Hypothermia, a potentially life-threatening drop in body temperature, often goes hand-in-hand with frostbite. Trained medical personnel will be able to watch for hypothermia as well as treat frostbite.

If medical attention is not readily available, the person who suspects frostbite should take shelter in a warm room as soon as possible, and immerse the affected area in warm – not hot – water. The temperature should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected parts of the body. If possible, have someone else test the water temperature. If warm water is not available, a person can also warm the affected body part using unexposed skin – such as placing affected fingers under your armpits to warm them.

A common myth associated with frostbite treatment is to massage or rub snow over the exposed skin. This is simply going to cause more damage. Also, don’t use a heating pad, heat lamp, or the heat of a stove, fireplace, or radiator for warming. The affected skin is most likely numb, and can be easily burned. The most important thing is to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Dressing appropriately for outdoor activity is the best way to avoid frostbite altogether. Wear a scarf or knit mask to cover your face and mouth and goggles if you are skiing or snowboarding. Coats should have sleeves that are snug at the wrist, and mittens are preferable to gloves because they use the heat of your fingers more effectively. In addition, staying dry is important because dampness or excess perspiration increases heat loss, so for activities where a person is exposed to snow, a waterproof parka or jacket is important. Layering several light fabrics such as wool, silk, or polypropylene retains more body heat than one heavy layer of cotton.

Finally, do not ignore shivering. It’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is your body’s way of saying it’s time to take a break from wintry weather and head back indoors.

"Health Matters" is written in cooperation with staff members of Boston Medical Center. For more information about frostbite or other health matters, call 617-638-6767.

7 December 2000
Boston University
Office of University Relations