February is typically the coldest month of the year. While in the depths of the winter you may have developed cabin fever and need to get outside. While a walk in the brisk cold air is a great way to get the blood pumping again, it can lead to problems if you don’t cover up. Frostbite is an unbearable and dangerous result of being outside in sub-freezing temperatures too long.
Frostbite happens when cold weather kills exposed skin cells. Frostbite can be developed in only a few minutes after skin has been exposed to the harsh cold, depending on the exact wind speed and temperature. The most common areas of the body prone to frostbite are the nose, ears, tips of fingers and toes, cheeks and chin. But if you protect yourself you can ward of frostbite while enjoying the winter wonderland.
What you wear outside in freezing temperatures is the most important thing to prevent frostbite. Wear mittens, which are warmer than gloves and double up on the socks to protect your fingers and toes. Wear light, loose and layered clothing that will provide circulation as well as ventilation. The best outer-layers should be made from water repellent materials. Look for gaps in clothing that may expose bare skin to clothes (i.e. Tuck your pant legs into your socks).
If you want to get outside, limit your time. If you’re used to running three miles in the summer, limit it to a mile in the winter. Avoid long walks that get you away from home too much. Look at weather information in your area before you go outside. And if your clothes start to get wet make sure that you go inside immediately and remove them.
Believe it or not, drinking and smoking can lead to frostbite. If you drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes you are more likely to develop frostbit because both make the body more susceptible to cold. Stick to warm or hot beverages if you have to be outdoors.
Be sure to check yourself every half hour that you are outdoors for frostbite. The most common sign of frostbite is a numbness in the area affected. Areas may feel hard or frozen. A frostbite can cause waxy, or grayish coloring on the body.
If you do get frostbite it’s important to seek medical attention. Get to a warm room and have warm drinks like tea or soups. You can immerse the affected area in warm water to help until a warm sensation returns. Typically you should soak for at least a half hour. Make sure the water is not too hot, but warm.
