Home Injuries Frost Bite and Hypothermia

Frost Bite and Hypothermia

Frost Bite and Hypothermia

Description Of The Injury: Frostbite and hypothermia are both caused by extreme cold. Hypothermia is the dysfunction of the internal organs caused by the body being unable to warm itself faster than the cold. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can cause frostbite, which is when the skin or other tissue freezes.

Injury Symptoms: Hypothermia typically will give the skin a bluish tint. Extremities that do not receive blood as quickly will be the first to show. Continued untreated, frostbite may develop as the skin takes on a white or grayish-yellow appearance and has a hard or waxy feel.

Additional Information

Home Treatments:

The primary treatment for both hypothermia and frostbite is to first remove the victim from the cold, warming up their back and chest to normal body temperature. Emergency help should be called immediately.

Professional Medical Treatments:

Intravenous methods are a common way to treat hypothermia and frostbite. One technique is through-blood re-warming, which is the drawing out, warming, and recirculation of blood in the body. Other techniques include airway re-warming and cavity lavage.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

Cardiovascular activities that help the heart and increase body stamina are a good way build up endurance, but no exercise can prepare you against the cold itself. Prevention is the ideal solution.

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

Exercise is helpful, but the best way to prevent hypothermia is to not overexert oneself to the point of sweating. Wet clothing and cold weather can cause the body to lose heat much more quickly.