Frostbite

Frostbite is the damage caused to the skin and the underlying tissues as a result of extreme cold. Frostbite is caused when the skin and the underlying tissues are exposed to very cold temperature for a prolonged period. The most vulnerable areas are the hands, feet, ears and nose. Frostbite is characterized by the hard and pale quality of the skin that has been affected due to prolonged exposure to the cold temperature. The affected area lacks touch sensitivity though the area may be painful. On thawing, the area becomes red and extremely painful. The first noticeable symptoms are the sensation of “pins and needles” which is then followed by numbness.