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Frostbite

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Frostbite, which is considered a cold burn, occurs when the skin and underlying tissue freezes due to prolonged exposure to cold, especially in below-freezing temperatures.

Frostbite can happen even after a few minutes in extremely low temperatures. It can occur in snowy, windy or rainy weather. Frostnip is a mild form of frostbite. While classified as mild frostbite, frostnip should be treated so the condition does not advance.

 

Babies and children are more likely to get frostbite than adults because their bodies lose heat up to four times faster. Children and teenagers may also not always recognize when they need to take a break from playing outside because thinking can be impaired by extreme cold.

When the body is exposed to very low temperatures, it tries to prevent heat loss by redirecting the blood away from the extremities, such as fingers and toes. This change in blood flow may cause people to lose some awareness of how cold their fingers and toes have become, resulting in frostbite. Children playing outside in extreme cold should come inside every 15 minutes or so to take a break and warm up.

Frostbite Symptoms

Early frostbite symptoms include:

  • Skin turning from red to extremely pale
  • Losing feeling in the affected areas
  • Skin feeling hard or firm
  • Blistering within 24 hours after exposure to cold

Advanced frostbite symptoms include:

  • Skin turning a dark color
  • Lack of feeling in the part of the body where the skin has darkened significantly in color

How to Treat Frostbite and Frostnip – and What Not to Do

Frostnip can be cured by slowly rewarming the skin in the affected areas, such as fingers, face and toes.

  • Never use heating pads or electric heaters, as they can result in a more serious burn.
  • Rewarm affected areas of the body slowly with body heat (for example, placing cold hands under the arms) or warm cloths.
  • Do not use hot water to rewarm the skin.

Frostbite is considered a medical emergency and should be treated immediately in a healthcare setting. If you are unsure if your child has frostbite, it is best to contact a healthcare provider.

Staying Safe From Frostbite

Making sure children are adequately prepared for cold temperatures when they go outside is important. Children tend to get frostbite on their fingers and toes, along with parts of their face, so paying extra attention to those areas will help protect them from frostbite and frostnip.

  • Dress in layers underneath coats and snow pants.
  • Wear waterproof boots.
  • Wear hats, mittens and scarves that are large enough to protect a child’s face.
  • Take regular breaks, coming inside to warm up from the cold.
  • If clothes get wet for any reason, change into a dry outfit.
  • Be aware that very cold children (and adults) can develop impaired thinking and sensation, increasing the risk of frostbite.
Many people don’t realize that frostbite is often treated in burn units and like all burns, the sooner your child receives care, the better their outcome will be.
Robert L. Sheridan, M.D., chief of staff, Shriners Children's Boston
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