How to diagnose Frostbite? What are the Causes and Treatment

Causes –

o   Frostbite happens when skin is exposed to cold temperature or cold water for an extended time

o   Direct contact with Ice packs and cold metal may also cause harm if they’re ironed directly against your skin.

The water in the skin freezes due to cold exposure which may cause visible and invisible harm to cells and soft tissues. It usually affects extremities [fingers/ toes/ears], however, it can also affect the cheeks and chin. The damage can go deep below the skin, including muscles, nerves, and joints

Diagnosis

There are not any easy tests to inform how badly you’ve been impacted by frostbite. The physician will inspect the area, and evaluate the history of cold exposure that including the time, the person was exposed to extreme temperatures.

o   Depending on the stages of frostbite and associated symptoms imaging methods [such as X-RAY] can be used to diagnose the severity.

o   Physical examination may include inspection of skin color [white/red/black] and presence of blisters [clear or blood-filled].

o   Clear blisters indicate temporary damage whereas blood-filled blisters are suggestive of long-term damage.

o   Black gangrenous skin needs surgical removal for preventing gangrene. 

Treatment

Time is vital when you are exposed to severe cold and experience symptoms of frostbite such as pain or red fingers. Immediately move into the warm area and gently heat your skin. If symptoms are severe [2^nd/3^rd stage] then seek emergency medical care immediately to

o   Help raise your blood temperatures in lukewarm water or by applying heat for half an hour.

o   Dress your frozen or wounded skin with sterile bandages

o   Keep your fingers and toes separated to avoid rubbing.

o   Test blood flow in the affected area. In the case of 3^rd stage frostbite, blood circulation and hydration can be improved by giving IV fluids.

o   Antibiotics, pain relievers, tetanus shots, and/or oxygen therapy are given as supportive therapy