How To Treat Frostbite

Frostbite can be defined as the damage to the skin and the deeper tissues of the body, on being exposed to extreme cold, for a longer period of time. In freezing conditions below 0 degrees C, blood vessels closer to the skin start contracting. This reduces the blood flow to certain body parts, to dangerously low levels. If left to prevail for long, the cold and reduced blood flow can freeze the affected body parts and cause severe tissue injury. Frostbite usually develops during extreme cold conditions, when the air temperature is below -12°C (10°F). High winds, dampness, or general chilling of the body may also lead to frostbite, when the temperature is near the freezing point (0°C/32°F). The body parts likely to be injured in this case are hands, feet, noses, and ears. The person suffering from frostbite cannot "feel" frostbitten body parts, since they become numb. Once the condition is identified, immediately treatment should be provided, to prevent further damage to the tissues. Read on to get some tips on treating frostbite.