- Frostbite can occur in extreme cold weather, or in above-freezing temperatures if there is a strong wind or if you are wet or at a high altitude. When your body is exposed to cold, it tries to preserve heat. Blood vessels narrow to keep the heart and lungs warm. This reaction helps prevent hypothermia, which results when the body's temperature falls below 98°F (34°C), according to the Mayo Clinic. Unfortunately, this reaction also stops hands and feet from receiving enough blood, causing them to become cold. "When skin temperature drops low enough, ice crystals can form around and within the cells, freezing tissue and possibly rupturing cells," according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website. "The lack of circulation that occurs when the body directs blood flow away from the extremities may also cause cell damage."
- Knowing your risk factors will help you prevent frostbite. People most at risk for frostbite are those with cardiovascular disease, diabetes or poor circulation, as well as the elderly, the very young, people who have consumed alcohol or who smoke, patients on beta-blockers and the homeless, according to the Mayo Clinic website.
- If you must venture out into cold weather, you can take certain precautions to help prevent frostbite. Wearing several layers of warm clothing provides protection from wind and water. Wearing dry covers, such as insulated gloves, socks and boots reduces your risk factors greatly. If your clothes get wet in cold weather, replace them with dry clothes immediately. Drink lots of fluids and eat plenty of food during lengthy outings, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before venturing into the cold. Wear head covering, preferably with earflaps. About 30 percent of heat loss occurs through the head, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. If white patches begin to appear on your face or ears, seek a warm refuge and contact a doctor. These patches may signal frostbite.
