In winter, we have the opportunity not only to skate, ski, and sled, but also to suffer frostbite of varying degrees. And such a risk exists not only in severe frosts, but even when the air temperature is zero in damp, windy weather.
In winter, we have the opportunity not only to skate, ski, and sled, but also to suffer frostbite of varying degrees. And such a risk exists not only in severe frosts, but even when the air temperature is zero in damp, windy weather.
How to identify frostbite?
- If the frozen body part is swollen, very red, burning, and numb, you have the first stage of frostbite. The second is characterized by blueness, significant swelling, and the appearance of blisters. In the third stage, serious skin changes occur, and severe pain is felt. If symptoms of the second and third stages are present, you must seek medical attention immediately.
How to provide first aid at home?
If after a walk you feel that a part of your body is severely chilled, you need to warm it up gradually. Warm a frostbitten arm or leg in a bath, increasing the temperature by one degree every 10 minutes, or gently massage the frostbitten areas. They need to be warmed by rubbing, dried, put on warm socks or mittens, and drink hot tea.
What to do to avoid frostbite?
Try to dress warmly in loose-fitting, soft clothing. Remember that gloves and shoes should not press on your fingers and toes. Shoes should be bought a size larger to allow you to wiggle your toes.
In winter, you must wear a hat, and it is better to avoid metal jewelry and earrings. Before going out in severe frost, you should drink hot tea and apply greasy cream to your hands (face).
Try not to remain motionless in the frost. If you have to stand at a bus stop for a long time, you need to move: walk around or stomp your feet in place.
If you have to stay outdoors for a long time, go into a warm room every half hour to an hour to warm up and change wet clothing. To avoid freezing, your fingers need good blood circulation. A simple exercise: with your arm straight, make 25-30 rotational movements from the shoulder. Wiggle your toes, hop from foot to foot (don't stomp too hard, as this can damage frozen tissues). Do not overexert yourself. Keep moving, but conserve your energy, otherwise you will deplete your entire energy reserve very quickly.
What should you not do?
Under no circumstances should you drink alcohol – it does not warm you up, but rather cools the body. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, increases heat loss, and leads to hypothermia. Do not touch metal with bare hands or your tongue (for those who haven't tried this since preschool). Metal conducts heat much better than air; it draws heat away from you, and frostbite can occur at the point of contact. Always use gloves and other protective measures when working with metal in the cold. Do not rub frostbitten areas of the body with snow – this leads to more severe frostbite, as a wet surface freezes faster in the cold. Do not smoke in the cold. Cigarettes cause spasms of the capillaries in the extremities, which can lead to frostbite.
The first thing to do if there are signs of frostbite is to take the affected person to the nearest warm room, call a doctor, and undress them (remove wet shoes, socks, and gloves).