| Frostbite
and freezing temperatures, render more than the wonders and magic
of winter. The adverse effects of frolicking in the cold outdoors
goes well beyond a little snow and seasonal activities, such as:
snowmobiling, snowball fights, bob-sledding, cross-country skiing,
snow-skiing and other snow fun. Extended
periods of frostbite may lead to nerve damage. The tingling
sensation of exposure to harsh climates may damage underlying
tissues and skin is commonly referred to as frostbite. The regions
of the body commonly affected include the feet, hands, ears
and nose.
Frostbite is identifiable because
the symptoms render a pale, hard and cold texture to the skin
when exposed to cold climates. When the area of the afflicted
skin thaws, flesh will become painful and red. To quell the
unbearable discomfort of frostbite, follow these tips:
? Go indoors and remove yourself
from the harsh elements of the climate
? To warm up your hands and
fingers, place them under your armpits. Also, try cupping your
hands together as you blow into them.
? To restore warmth to the
face, cover the ears, nose, and cheeks with dried, gloved hands.
? Never rub the affected area
with cold hands or snow.
? If there is a possibility
that the frozen regions of the body may be refrozen, do not
allow the affected areas thaw out. If exposure is unavoidable,
wrap the affected areas in a warm wrap to circumvent the chance
of becoming refrozen.
? Seek emergency medical attention
if the numbness will not diminish during warming.
On a final note, if hands are
unable to be immediately warmed up, never ever place the hands
into hot water. |
