At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How do I Treat a Cold Burn?
First aid for cold burns involves many common first aid applications, including properly cleaning and covering the affected area, using warm compresses or water to gently heat the tissue, and supplying the victim with warm beverages to assist in rewarming the entire body. Cold burns are the result of frostbite and can result in serious complications if not treated quickly or if the person continues to be exposed to extreme cold conditions. Much like traditional burns, cold burns can be characterized by blisters and the affected tissue may feel hot to the victim. Without quick first aid and experienced medical attention, the condition can worsen and result in gangrene of the skin and muscle tissues, and surgical amputation of the limbs may be needed.
Especially in the outdoors with no access to shelter or heat, one of the most effective ways to treat a burn is by properly wrapping the affected areas. Frostbite most often affects the face, including the nose and ears, as well as fingers and toes. Most medical experts suggest using clean, sterile gauze to wrap the frostbitten hands, feet, fingers, and toes carefully, and making sure to separate the digits. Large strips of gauze can be used to cover the face if available. The first aid responders can also employ scarves and any available material for this use.
Regardless of which areas of the body are affected by frostbite, supplying the victim with warm or hot beverages is also considered an effective first aid treatment. It is important to monitor the temperature of the beverage to ensure the body does not go into shock due to extreme temperature differences. Hot chocolate, tea, and coffee are good choices, but offering warm water to drink is equally effective if that is all that is available.
Warm compresses and water treatments are advisable for treating cold burn symptoms as well. The compresses may be gently laid or wrapped around the damaged extremities and changed as needed when the compress cools. Like the hot beverage treatment, it is important to ensure the compress or water is warm, not hot, in order to protect the skin and tissue. Warm water can also be used to successfully treat a cold burn until emergency medical help arrives or can be reached. The water should be circulated as much as possible around the frostbitten tissues to slowly increase the temperature of the site.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![It is important to remain out of extremely cold environments after experiencing a cold burn so as not to worsen the burn.]()
By: Andrei MerkulovIt is important to remain out of extremely cold environments after experiencing a cold burn so as not to worsen the burn. -
![Frostbitten hands should be covered in gauze.]()
By: design56Frostbitten hands should be covered in gauze. -
![Gauze is used to wrap the hands and other extremities in cases of a cold burn.]()
By: Vivian SeefeldGauze is used to wrap the hands and other extremities in cases of a cold burn. -
![A warm compress may be used to treat cold burn symptoms.]()
By: JPC-PRODA warm compress may be used to treat cold burn symptoms. -
![Large or severe cold burns should be addressed by a doctor.]()
By: MagaliceLarge or severe cold burns should be addressed by a doctor. -
![A warm compress is advisable for treating cold burn symptoms.]()
By: fotomatrixA warm compress is advisable for treating cold burn symptoms. -
![The treatment for mild frostbite involves simply warming up the affected area.]()
By: dragon_fangThe treatment for mild frostbite involves simply warming up the affected area.
Discussion Comments
Itching and burning are a couple of the early warning signs of frostbite. You should be aware that cold burn can take place very quickly. You don't have to be trapped outside in the cold for extremely long periods.
@Feryll - The feeling you are describing is common, and most people who have spent any time in cold weather probably know the feeling. Usually it is worse when you get your hands wet like when you are playing in the snow throwing snow balls or making snow people.
For me, the itching and burning start when I wash my hands with warm water or warm them in front of the fireplace after I have been outside in the cold.
I don't know what causes this, but for some reason my hands and fingers will start to itch when I begin to warm them when I have been outside in cold weather for a while. The temperatures have to be pretty cold for this to happen, but it always happens at some point during the winter.
I describe this feeling as itching because that's what it most feels like, but the itch is coming from inside my fingers and hands, not on the skin.
Post your comments