This time of year, it’s essential to bundle up — even if you’re planning a short excursion outside.
Depending on how cold it is and how hard the wind is blowing, frostbite can set in after just five minutes.
Frostbite — a condition in which your skin is freezing — starts with red or white skin; a stinging, prickling, burning feeling; or numbness.
“If you’re outside with exposed skin and feel these symptoms, stop what you’re doing and get someplace warm immediately,” said Pavlos-Ioannis Saramadis, MD, a family medicine physician with Endeavor Health.
Once inside, change into dry clothing and submerge the affected areas in warm water. Don’t use hot water. If you’re numb, you may not be able to feel the heat and could easily burn yourself.
“If you think you have frostbite, head to an emergency room right away,” Dr. Saramadis said. “Untreated frostbite can lead to nerve damage, chronic pain and infection.”
Emergency room personnel can warm you up safely and can determine how extensive the frostbite is.
The best-case scenario, of course, is to avoid frostbite altogether. Take these steps before you head out in frigid temperatures:
- Layer up. Wear several layers of loose but warm clothing. If something you’re wearing gets wet — especially gloves, socks or your hat — change into something dry as soon as you can.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before you go outside and throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps you avoid frostbite. Drinking something warm when you come in from the cold will help you warm up.
- Cover your extremities. Put on a hat that covers your ears. Add a scarf across your face if it’s really cold. Wear insulated gloves or mittens and slip on two pairs of socks (the ones closest to your skin should be moisture-wicking fabric).
- Keep dry. Wear a heavy coat that repels water, ski pants and boots that cover your ankles. Keep snow out of your sleeves, pant legs and boots.
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