Frostbite: Risks and Tips for Prevention

What you need to know about one of the most serious and overlooked cold-weather injuries.

Winter brings plenty of challenges to Central Illinois, including the risk of frostbite. It can develop quickly, even during routine activities like walking the dog, shoveling snow, or commuting to work.

Frostbite can cause lasting tissue damage and often strikes before a person realizes they’re in danger. The time necessary for frostbite to occur depends heavily on the temperature, wind chill, and how long the skin is exposed. Understanding how it happens and how to prevent it is essential.

This article offers practical steps to stay safe, protect vulnerable loved ones, and make informed decisions during harsh winter weather.

What Is Frostbite?

Frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. It typically affects body parts farthest from the heart, such as fingers, toes, ears, nose, cheeks, and chin. Reduced blood flow to these areas allows ice crystals to form in the tissue.

Frostbite results in tissue damage that ranges from mildly uncomfortable to permanent tissue death. Early recognition and prevention are key.

Risk Factors and Vulnerable Individuals

Anyone can get frostbite, but certain conditions increase the risk and severity of tissue damage. Key risk factors include:

Prolonged exposure to cold or wind
Wet clothing or skin
Poor circulation
Underlying medical conditions
General physical health of the individual

Older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and individuals without adequate shelter are at increased risk of frostbite during extreme cold weather. These groups may have a harder time staying warm, recognizing early symptoms, or accessing protection from the cold.

Signs and Symptoms of Frostbite

Recognizing frostbite early can prevent serious injury. Symptoms may include:

Cold, numb, or tingling skin
Skin that appears red, pale, grayish, or waxy
Firm or hard skin
Blistering in more advanced cases

If numbness occurs, frostbite may already be developing. Pain may lessen as the area becomes frozen, delaying treatment. Remember, skin that is numb from cold is also unable to sense heat, so use caution when warming frostbitten areas.

Tips to Prevent Frostbite

The good news is that frostbite is largely preventable. These simple precautions can make a big difference:

Dress for the Weather
Layering is essential. Wear loose, warm layers to trap heat. Choose moisture-wicking materials that stay close to the skin, with insulated outer layers to block wind and moisture.
Protect Exposed Skin
Cover hands, feet, ears, nose, and face. Wear insulated gloves or mittens, thick socks, warm boots, a hat, and a scarf or face covering.
Stay Dry
Wet skin loses heat quickly and is more prone to frostbite. Change out of damp clothing as soon as possible and keep boots and gloves dry.
Limit Time Outdoors
Take frequent indoor breaks when working or spending time outdoors. Even brief warm-up periods indoors or in a heated vehicle can help restore circulation.
Stay Nourished and Hydrated
Eating regular meals and drinking fluids helps your body generate heat. Avoid alcohol use in cold weather, as it increases heat loss and dulls awareness of cold injury.
Protect Pets from the Cold
Pets are also susceptible to frostbite, especially their ears, paws, tail, and nose. Limit the time pets spend outdoors in cold weather. After outdoor time, check paws for ice, snow, and other signs of injury.
Pay Attention to Weather Conditions
Check the forecast and wind chill before heading outside. Plan your activities accordingly.

What to Do If Frostbite Is Suspected

If you think frostbite may be developing:

Get indoors or to a warm shelter immediately.
Remove wet clothing.
Warm the affected area gradually using body heat or warm (not hot) water. Never use direct heat on frostbitten skin.
Do not rub or massage frostbitten skin.
Seek medical care as soon as possible if symptoms of frostbite appear.

Stay Safe This Winter

Winter weather is part of life in central Illinois. The Moultrie County Health Department wants you and your loved ones to stay aware, stay warm, and stay healthy all winter long.