Frostbite can happen quickly. All it takes is exposed or poorly covered skin and extreme cold temperatures to damage tissue in minutes. Even if the outside temperature seems relatively warm for a winter day, wind, skin health and other factors can lead to frostbite. If you suspect you have frostbite, there are some basic but important first-aid steps you can take to begin the healing process. Regardless of how well your home healing methods work, you still need to see your doctor. Untreated frostbite can cause skin and tissue problems so serious that they require amputation.
Step 1
Get indoors as soon as possible. Remove wet, cold clothes and change into warm ones. Apply blankets to further increase body temperature.
Step 2
Fill a bowl, basin or tub with 101 to 104 degree Fahrenheit water, suggests St. John Providence Health System. Measure the water with your elbow if you don't have a thermometer. The water should feel very warm but not hot.
Step 3
Submerge frostbitten areas into the water. Add more hot water periodically to keep the temperature consistently warm. Leave your skin submerged until it changes from cold, white and waxy to pink and warm. Expect to feel some tingling and discomfort while blood flow returns to the frostbitten areas.
Step 4
Dab the area dry with a towel. Wrap it in clean gauze to protect blistered or broken skin. Avoid rubbing, massaging or slapping the area to try to restore blood flow, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 5
See a doctor immediately. Call an ambulance if you suspect frostbite on your feet because walking on frostbitten feet can cause serious tissue injury.
Things You'll Need
- Tub or basin
- 101 to 104 degree Fahrenheit water
- Blankets
- Towel
- Gauze
