Frostnip (HB)

As the body is exposed to cold environments, we move the blood from the body’s outer shell to the inner core. This action keeps the vital organs as warm as possible and prevents further heat loss in the shell. As your skin senses the cold temperature, the blood vessels constrict, forcing the warm blood inward, leaving the shell without a good heat source.
Decreased sensation to affected areas. Primarily to the areas that are not covered and the furthest from the core of the body. (fingers, toes, nose, and ears)

Prevention

You prevent frostnip by protecting exposed skin areas and helping the patient maintain good heat production and retention.

Signs and Symptoms

Frostnip will manifest as numbness, tingling, or decreased sensation to the affected areas. Due to the decreased perfusion to the site, the skin may be pale, mottled, or red, but the tissue, including the skin, is still pliable.

Treatment

This condition can fix itself by removing the cold exposure and allowing the body to move the warm blood from the core out to the affected areas. We don’t need to place the affected areas in hot water, as it can be very painful as things start to warm back up. Warm water is ok as long as it is tolerated by the patient’s pain level and comfort.