Winter can be a fun time with your children – snowmen,
snowball fights and igloos in the backyard can be a great time for kids of all
ages. But it’s also important to dress your children properly for the cold
weather to prevent illness and of course, frostbite.
Frostbite literally means “frozen body tissue.” This usually
means the skin, however frostbite can also affect deeper tissue as well and
should be handled quickly and carefully to avoid causing permanent tissue
damage. There are actually different stages of frostbite and as parents you
should be aware of each and the signs that come with each phase to be able to
treat it right away.
Frostnip is often the first and most mildest form of
frostbite. It will typically affect the areas most exposed to cold: cheeks,
nose, fingers, toes and even your ears, causing the affected areas to become
red, numb and tingly. Frostnip can typically be treated at home simply by
getting your child indoors and warming the affected areas.
Frostbite itself will have much more serious symptoms and if
you are allowing your child to play outdoors for extended periods of time in
the cold, you should know what to look for: white, waxy skin, numbness to the
affected areas or a hardness to the skin. Don’t try to treat the problem at
home – medical attention should be sought immediately.
If your child has been affected by frostbite, a trip to the
hospital is necessary. If the feet are affected, carry your child do NOT let
them walk if you suspect their feet have been affected. Be sure you have put
your child into warm, dry clothing before transporting them for treatment.
In the event that you can’t get your child to the ER right
away or if you are waiting for an ambulance to take you, there are a few things
you can do to administer first aid while you wait:
·
Put frozen skin into WARM not hot water. If you
aren’t able to access warm water, wrap your child in warm blankets or use your
body heat to cover the affected area.
·
Do not use a heating pad on the area.
·
Do not thaw the frozen skin if medical treatment
is not immediately accessible – thawing skin that can potentially be refrozen
can have serious, negative effects.
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