Early Stages of Frostbite
Frostbite is a serious condition that may cause permanent damage to tissues, including the loss of fingers, toes or portions of the skin. It occurs when temperatures are low enough to cause the areas inside red blood cells to freeze, rupturing the cells and killing the tissue. Frostbite occurs in several stages, all of which are distinctly marked by specific symptoms such as pain, numbness and discoloration.
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Frostnip
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Frostnip is the first stage of frostbite. It occurs when only the surface of the skin is frozen. By itself, frostnip is not a severe condition and in worst cases causes permanent sensitivity to heat or cold. Extremities suffering frostnip may develop spots of whitened, yellowed or reddened tissue. Discolored tissue may be itchy or painful. Eventually, numbness sets in and small blue spots appear on the affected tissue.
Pain
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Differing levels of pain are a good indicator of frostbite. In its earliest stages, frostbite exhibits symptoms of tingling or burning. This is sometimes accompanied by a distinct reddening of the skin. As frostbite continues to progress, pain actually becomes less and less acute. Extremities will gradually begin to lose their sensitivity to pain and develop a distinct sensation of numbness. Frostbite, when fully matriculated, is usually accompanied by a complete loss of sensation.
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Effects on Tissue
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The respective hardness or softness of the skin tissue changes as frostbite progresses. In early stages, such as when frostnip sets in, the skin remains relatively supple and malleable. The skin gradually becomes harder and harder as it continues to freeze. At this stage, treatment and gradual warming of the skin can still recover damaged tissue. The tissue may die and need to be removed once frostbite reaches its latter stages.
Blisters
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Blisters may appear soon after the surface of the skin freezes. This usually occurs around one to two days after freezing. Blisters may harden and give the skin a distinctly blackened appearance. This type of injury is not severe and will typically abate within a few weeks. Long-term symptoms of blistering may include permanent sensitivity to heat and cold.
Prevention/Solution
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If you are exposed to temperatures below freezing for long periods of time, be on alert for the early signs of frostbite. Wear loose-fitting clothing, especially boots and mittens, as opposed to skin-tight gear. This will create a small pocket of air between the clothes and skin that acts as an insulator. Do not stay or sleep in areas exposed to wind or extreme cold. Go inside and seek warmth immediately if you notice skin discoloration or begin to lose sensation in your extremities.
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