Let’s Talk About Frostbite and Hypothermia

College of DuPage Nursing Student Nashoana wrote that winter is almost everyone’s favorite season (stated sarcastically. Everyone knows what a brutal time winter can be in Chicago. With copious amounts of snow, frigid temperatures, and the need for several layers of clothing to stay warm. To endure a Chicago winter, it is important to be familiar with some tips to avoid hypothermia and frostbite.

Understanding Hypothermia and Frostbite
 Hypothermia and frostbite can be dangerous to the body. In dangerously low temperatures, the body begins to lose body heat faster than it can be produced. This is especially true in temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. With prolonged exposure, there is the possibility of frostbite. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 2020), it is important to prevent hypothermia and frostbite as it may result in the loss of sensation and blood flow in areas of the skin that are affected, which usually involves the extremities such as, the nose, ears, cheek, chin, fingers, and toes. If these areas are left untreated tissue damage may become permanent.

Risk factors for hypothermia are numerous. With increasing age the susceptibility to frostbite increases. Staying outdoors for extended periods of time is a risk because of increased exposure to the conditions. Alcohol consumption is another risk since an individual is less sensitive to the cold temperatures after drinking alcohol. Poor circulation and not being dressed appropriately for the weather are also risk factors. It is not uncommon for some individuals to wear shorts during winter while others have long coats. Limiting exposure to the cold and dressing appropriately are both keys to avoiding hypothermia and frostbite.

Recognizing Hypothermia and Frostbite
Common signs and symptoms of frostbite include grayish discoloration of the skin, numbness, and skin that feels waxy. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, feeling tired, confused, slurred speech, and fumbling hands. It is especially important to watch for signs of hypothermia in infants since they are more susceptible. In infants, these signs and symptoms may include red and cold skin and low energy. Keeping both infants and adults warm and limiting exposure to cold by limiting the time spent outside will help to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

Preventing Hypothermia and Frostbite
Winter is a tough time for everyone. With freezing temperatures in addition to snowy days and nights, it can be difficult to stay warm when out in the cold but especially important to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. Noticing the signs and symptoms for these conditions will indicate when it is time to seek warm shelter and if necessary, medical attention. Winter does not have to be a risky time during cold conditions, but having an idea of what to expect during the winter conditions how to manage them will help with staying safe and warm throughout the winter.

Recognizing Hypothermia and Frostbite
Common signs and symptoms of frostbite include grayish discoloration of the skin, numbness, and skin that feels waxy. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, feeling tired, confused, slurred speech, and fumbling hands. It is especially important to watch for signs of hypothermia in infants since they are more susceptible. In infants, these signs and symptoms may include red and cold skin and low energy. Keeping both infants and adults warm and limiting exposure to cold by limiting the time spent outside will help to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

Preventing Hypothermia and Frostbite
Winter is a tough time for everyone. With freezing temperatures in addition to snowy days and nights, it can be difficult to stay warm when out in the cold but especially important to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. Noticing the signs and symptoms for these conditions will indicate when it is time to seek warm shelter and if necessary, medical attention. Winter does not have to be a risky time during cold conditions, but having an idea of what to expect during the winter conditions how to manage them will help with staying safe and warm throughout the winter.