A :
B :
C :
D :
E :
F :
G :
H :
I :
J :
K :
L :
M :
N :
O :
P :
Q :
R :
S :
T :
U :
V :
W :
X :
Y :
Z
Frostbite
Medical Questions » Frostbite
| Name: Frostbite |
| Also known as: |
| The freezing of living tissue that occurs most commonly in the toes, but fingers, ears and nose may also be affected. |
Causes of Frostbite
Exposure of flesh to very cold conditions. |
Symptoms of Frostbite
The severity of the frostbite depends on the depth to which the freezing has penetrated. Early symptoms are numbness, itching and a pricking sensation. As the freezing penetrates deeper, stiffness and shooting pains will occur, the skin is white or yellow, and the toe or finger becomes immobile. |
Tests for Frostbite
None. |
Treatment for Frostbite
Slow and gradual thawing of frozen tissue in warm water. Rapid rewarming or overheating further damages the tissue. Never warm an area affected by frostbite by rubbing or massage. If two people are present, thawing each others toes by placing them in the other person' s armpit is an ideal method. After thawing, the tissue should be kept protected and warm. No dressings should be applied, but the affected areas should be left exposed in a warm room. Antiseptics may be applied to blisters and antibiotics given for infection. Only after several days or weeks is amputation of affected fingers or toes considered, as recovery may occur from an apparently hopeless situation. Moist gangrene is an indication for immediate amputation.
|
Complications of Frostbite of its treatment
Freezing of the skin itself is not particularly serious, but if the freezing penetrates to the bone, the tissue will die, and the finger or toe requires amputation. Late stages of frostbite are characterised by blistering, swelling, black coloration and gangrene. |
Likely Outcome of Frostbite
Depends on severity of freezing. Any area that has been frostbitten will be more susceptible to frostbite in future. |
|
|
