How to Recognize Frostbite

Recognizing the different degrees of frostbite is essential to treating it, and treating it may save a finger, toe, arm or leg.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• First Aid Kits

1. Check for sensation. Numbness might indicate frostbite.

2. Look at the affected body part. If a very small area appears white and waxy or gray and mottled but feels normal to the touch, it probably has frostnip. Warm the affected area at once.

3. Look for a more advanced stage - a body part with the appearance of frostnip but hard on the surface and soft below. This is probably superficial frostbite. Treat accordingly.

4. Check for yet more serious frostbite, indicated by a large discolored area - purple in the most severe cases - that feels hard all the way through. Treat accordingly.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the Wilderness Medicine Institute or the National Outdoor Leadership School for information on wilderness medicine courses and books.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

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on 12/28/2005 Put the infected body part in cold water, so it feels comfortable. Next, gradually warm up the water so that you get adjusted. Eventually the pain will ease and your hands will be able to move.