Frostbite Can Take Place in Minutes

When outside temperatures plummet to sub-zero and wind chills dip into negative numbers, you might be surprised how quickly frostbite can happen, Cleveland clinic reports.

Emergency room physician Stephen Meldon, MD, says frostbite could occur as rapidly as in 10 minutes when skin is exposed to temps that are 10 degrees below zero.

This is why it’s important, Dr. Meldon says, to dress defensively in frigid weather. Make sure to cover as much skin as possible and monitor your exposed skin for frostbite.

Emergency room physician Tom Tallman, DO, talks about other ways to prevent frostbite — and when you need to call for help.

Frostbite symptoms are flushed or reddened skin that might be accompanied by a tingling or burning sensation.

Dr. Meldon recommends that you go indoors at the first sign of skin redness or pain.

With later stage frostbite, the skin becomes firm, white and waxy while the tissue beneath remains soft and pliable.

Deep frostbite means skin discoloration, blisters and flesh that feels extremely thick. This level of frostbite can cause permanent damage and warrants an immediate trip to the emergency department.

Еarly frostbite can be treated at home by submerging the skin in warm — not hot — water. That means water temperature of about 100 degrees. Do not rub or massage the frostbitten skin.

It might be painful as the skin warms. If the pain is extreme, go to the emergency department for medical evaluation.