Colorado winters are beautiful, but freezing temperatures can quickly turn dangerous. Frostbite is one of the most common cold-weather injuries, and it can happen faster than many people realize. CU Medicine provider Fred Endorf, MD shares what frostbite looks like, what to do if you suspect it and how to protect yourself when temperatures drop.

What is Frostbite?

Frostbite happens when skin and the tissues underneath freeze. It most often affects fingers, toes, ears, cheeks and the nose.

“Frostbite is actually when the tissues in your body get cold enough to form ice crystals,” shares Dr. Endorf, who treats patients for burns and frostbite. “Those ice crystals essentially poke through the cells and destroy the cells.”

What Are the Symptoms of Frostbite?

Recognizing the symptoms of frostbite early can prevent long-term damage. Early signs of frostbite may include:

• Skin that turns pale, red or gray
• Tingling, numbness or burning
• Skin that feels unusually firm or waxy

These symptoms are often seen with frostnip, a milder form of cold injury. Frostnip can be reversed at home, but frostbite requires medical attention from urgent care or the emergency department depending on the severity.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Frostbite?

If you notice frostbite symptoms, take action right away. Dr. Endorf recommends the following:

• Move indoors immediately
• Start rewarming with warm water at around 104°F
• Remove wet clothing
• Avoid rubbing, massaging or placing heat directly on the skin as this can further damage tissue

If numbness lasts, blisters form or pain worsens during rewarming, it’s important to seek medical care.

What Does Medical Treatment of Frostbite Entail?

Frostbite treatment starts with providers assessing what degree of frostbite a person has.

First degree frostbite, also known as frostnip, does not require any more care than rewarming.

Second degree frostbite, usually seen with clear blisters, is typically treated with local wound care.

Third degree and severe frostbite, which presents with bloodied blisters, is an emergency. Dr. Endorf shares, “third degree and higher frostbite means the person needs to be treated with thrombolytic therapy, also known as clot-busting therapy, just like you would for a stroke.” The goal is to preserve as much of the tissue as possible.

With all these treatments, the sooner you can be seen by medical professionals, the better the outcome.

How Do You Prevent Frostbite?

A few simple steps can help keep you safe during cold-weather activities:

• Dress in layers and cover exposed skin
• Wear insulated gloves, socks and a hat (bonus – Dr. Endorf encourages mittens over gloves for warmth)
• Stay dry and avoid tight-fitting clothing
• Take breaks indoors during outdoor activities
• Watch the wind chill, as frostbite can develop faster in icy-wind conditions

Stay Safe This Winter

Frostbite is preventable and knowing the signs can help protect you and your family. For more winter health guidance, sign up for our newsletter or schedule an appointment at CUmedicine.us.