It doesn't take long for exposed skin to develop frostbite. Even a few minutes in harsh conditions can cause tissue injury, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In mild cases of frostbite, called frost nip or superficial frostbite, tissues heal over time and retain their normal look and function. Severe frostbite causes damage that could necessitate amputation of your fingers or hands due to tissue death. If you suspect you have frostbite, see your doctor right away to improve your odds of saving your hands from complications like nerve damage, gangrene or amputation.
Step 1
Check your skin's color against a patch of normal, healthy skin on your body. Look for white skin with a blue tint to indicate frostbite. Red or flesh-colored skin indicates that frostbite hasn't stopped blood flow to the tissues in your hands, but you still might need treatment.
Step 2
Check or have a friend check your skin's texture and temperature. Feel for stiff or hardened skin as this indicates frostbite, according to St. John Providence Health System. Examine the skin's temperature to determine if it feels completely cold and lifeless or if, after a few minutes of contact, you can feel warmth coming from below the skin's surface.
Step 3
Examine the skin for a waxy appearance typical of frostbite. Watch for patches of skin that blister, peel or turn black. Seek medical attention immediately as dark, peeling skin and flesh is a sign of dead tissue.
Step 4
Move your hands and fingers to check for numbness, tingling or a burning sensation. These symptoms are present in all degrees of frostbite but get worse depending on the severity of your frostbite.
Step 5
Soak your hands in water that is warm but not hot. Test the water with your elbow if you're alone, recommends St. John Providence Health System. Watch for signs of increased blood flow to your skin, like your skin's color transitioning from white and blue to pink and purple.
Tips and Warnings
- Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect frostbite.
