The Symptoms of Frostbite
Frostbite is an extremely debilitating condition that can result in permanent and life altering injuries and so it is of upmost importance that you are able to recognise the symptoms and learn what the best practices of recovery and prevention are. Clearly, when we are out on our bivi bag adventures, or whatever outdoors activities you are doing, there will be times when we all come across extreme weather conditions and not only this but some will face this on a regular basis.
So here are the symptoms to look out for. Firstly, in the initial stages of frostbite, often referred to as ‘frostnip’, you may begin to notice a mild burning in sensation in your extremities, this is often noticed in the ears, and a waxy yellow or white color can come on to the skin. This however is easily treatable if caught early by slowly reheating the area. Do not apply direct or intense heat, remember that a slow and steady approach is always best. Often the reheating process is quite painful but don’t forget that you’re sacrificing a brief period of discomfort for the long term benefit.
The second stage of frostbite is when the cold has begun to really penetrate the skin and begin to freeze, pain will generally disappear at this stage and you will end up with reddening skin and some swelling. Again if you get to this stage remember to thaw out and reheat slowly, although you are likely to experience blisters and peeling skin, this tissue will be replaced in time and hopefully should not leave too much of a scar.
Finally, the last and most dangerous form of frostbite is when the cold has thoroughly worked into your tissue and has killed, or begun to kill the skin. This happens through a lack of blood reaching the tissue and is presented through waxy looking skin which is hard and painless to the touch. This skin will slowly turn black as the deeper tissues die off completely and will result in amputation of the affected area in a high majority of cases.
So these are the symptoms and possible implications of frostbite, shortly Bivi Bag will be bringing you an in depth article covering the best practices for keeping frost bite a bay and the methods that have been found best to aid in recovery from frost bite.