Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when a part of the body has cooled down so much that blood no longer circulates to it. It most commonly affects exposed areas such as the hands, feet, ears, nose and cheeks.
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Foto: Berit Djuse
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Symptoms of frostbite

The first symptoms are when the skin becomes white and cold and all sensation in the frozen area disappears. You may feel a stinging or burning sensation when the area starts to thaw. This can be painful. The area may become swollen and red, and blisters may sometimes form.

Warm slowly - skin to skin

A frostbite injury should be warmed immediately, otherwise the damage can be serious. You can warm a frozen cheek with a warm hand, and warm the fingers in the armpits. Frozen toes can be warmed by another person on the stomach or in the armpit. Continue warming until the colour and sensation return to normal, even if it hurts.

Do not warm if there is a risk of re-freezing

Deep frostbite should only be warmed if the injured part of the body can be kept warm until you are treated. Otherwise, it is better to keep it cool. Thawing the body part and then letting it get cold again can make the injury worse.