Frostbite
Frostbite
is caused by excessive exposure to damp cold (temperatures
around freezing) or dry cold (temperatures that are
well below freezing).
There
are various types of frostbite: - Frostnip
which
is characterized by hardened and whitened areas on face,
ears, fingers, and extremities, as well as peeling of
the skin that can occur within 24 to 72 hours, and recurrent
bouts of milder cold sensitivity that can last for life
- Immersion foot
in which the feet swell, get
pale, cold, clammy, and numb, possibly following by
later infection and swelling and pain that can persist
for years
- Frostbite
in which the affected area
becomes extremely cold, hard, white, and difficult to
feel, and, upon warming up, becomes very itchy, red,
swollen, blotchy, and painful
- Hypothermia
which is characterized by lethargy, poor coordination,
mental confusion and irritability, hallucinations, slowed
respiration and heart rate, and even death.
What To Consider
To prevent all forms of frostbite, a void conditions
that increase your risk to cold injury. These include
anemia, drug or alcohol excess, exhaustion and hunger,
and impaired circulation secondary to other diseases.
The very young and the elderly are also more at risk,
and therefore should take special care in protecting
themselves against exposure to the cold.
Note
Hypothermia occurs when the body cannot maintain its
normal temperature. As soon as possible warm the affected
areas, as well as the hands, feet, and abdomen. Rub
the area vigorously to stimulate circulation. You may
even snuggle and hug the person to increase warmth.
Caution
In all cases of hyperthermia, seek prompt medical attention
as soon as possible.
Self-Care Tips
Diet
Drinking
plenty of warm beverages throughout the day and evening.
Nutritional Supplementation
Vitamin B complex and
cayenne capsules can help to restore lost circulation.
Herbs
To stimulate circulation, drink hot ginger tea. Also
apply cayenne pepper as a spice to your food.
Hydrotherapy
Immersion bath slowing increasing the temperature of
the water.
Topical
Treatment
Gel from a freshly cut aloe vera leaf applied to the
affected area(s) can speed recovery.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
Back to Health Conditions A to Z
|
