Frostbite usually occurs in extreme cold conditions like high altitudes, snowy areas where temperatures reach sub zero. Distal extremities (foot) and exposed skin are most often affected. It occurs due to formation of ice crystals within or between the tissues leading to freezing and then death of tissues.
Symptoms and Signs:
The affected area is hard, numb, cold and white. When warmed the area becomes blotchy red, swollen and painful (as seen in the pic). Within 4-6 hrs blister formation starts. Blisters with clear fluid indicate superficial injury while those with blood indicate deep injury. Gangrene may also develop. Wet gangrene which is soft, gray and edematous, suggests infection while dry gangrene is less likely to be infected. All degrees of frostbite may cause long term neuropathic symptoms.
Symptoms and Signs:
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| Frostbite in Hand |
