How to Avoid Frostbite

Frostbite can become a very serious issue, this is why it is so important to make sure to protect yourself from it. Exposed skin is at risk during harsh cold weather. Blood flow moves away from areas like fingers and toes, to work harder at keeping the heart and lungs functioning, avoiding what would be hypothermia. That is why it is so important to make sure you’re taking the right precautions during the winter months.

Everyone knows that you should bundle up during the winter months. Here is why… it is important to protect skin from water and wind. For instance, if your gloves or socks are wet this is going to expedite the dangers of frostbite. If this happens make sure you replace with with dry clothes. Fingers and toes are where 90% of frostbite injuries occur. Hats and earmuffs are also extremely important when it comes to protecting yourself, about 30% of your heat escapes from your head. Staying hydrated and fueled with food while being outdoors needs to be a priority. Your body is working hard to keep you warm so depriving it of things it needs could be catastrophic.

Treating frostbite should be done by a medical physician immediately. If this is not possible for mild cases, use wet heating methods to rewarm the area. If not treated properly you risk losing a finger, toe or skin. There could be long term problems as well like, changes in skin color, lose of nail, sensitivity or change in sensation to the area of skin, and even chance of developing skin cancer.

Frostbite is a serious condition that in most cases is easily avoidable. No need to try and be the tough guy wearing shorts in the snow! Be smart this season and stay warm to protect yourself!

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