If you ever find yourself the subject of frostbite when out in the wilderness, reading this beforehand could help you greatly with the problem.
Summer has gone, Autumn is drawing to a close and winter is preparing itself to envelope us all. The snow junkies are beginning to stir out of hibernation.. The winter season is soon to be upon us. However there can be an element of risk for serious injury or illness whilst pursuing outdoor winter activities. You could find yourself lost and isolated in extreme weather conditions. If skiing, its possible you get yourself caught up in an avalanche. But one such danger to yourself could be that of frostbite which in this article we shall take a look at.
Frostbite is a condition caused by the freezing of water molecules in the skin cells and does occur in very cold or freezing conditions. Frostbite is generally characterized by white, waxy skin that feels very numb and very hard. In more severe cases of frostbite the results are the skin turning to a bluish black colour and finally the worst case scenario is that of gangrene, which can actually lead to amputation. The areas most affected by frostbite are the fingertips, toes, the nose, ears and cheeks. Frostbite should be treated professionally by a doctor or in a hospital. But in cases of emergency where you are isolated for example, you take the following steps to help with the condition.
1- Remove any wet clothing or garments from the affected area and dry as well as you can. Then dress the affected area with warm dry clothing.
2- If you have the capacity to warm water then immerse the affected area in this warm water. The ideal temperature for the water being 100 to 105 degrees F. You can also apply warm compresses to the area for ten to thirty minutes.
3- If you do not have access to warm water then wrap the area gently in warm blankets.
4- Avoid direct sources of heat such as electric or gas fires, heating pads and hot water bottles.
5- Never ever thaw the affected area if there is a danger that the area could be frozen again. This will cause a case of severe tissue damage.
6- Take an available pain killer such as aspirin or ibuprofen during the re-warming period of time to lesson the pain. Whilst re-warming you will experience a severe burning sensation. There could also be skin blistering and tissue swelling. When the skin has returned to a pink colour and is no longer numb the area is thawed.
7- Apply clean sterile dressings to the affected areas. If the fingers or toes have been affected then place the dressings between them. Wrap re-warmed areas to prevent refreezing and keep the affected thawed areas as still as possible.
These seven tips will help greatly with the situation and relieve as much pain as possible. But once you have access to professional help you must seek it. But dress properly, carry emergency supplies and just be aware of the threat of frostbite. With proper precautions, you hopefully will never encounter frostbite.
