What Is FROSTBITE? FROSTBITE Definition & Meaning
Channel: Audiopedia
Date: 2018-10-01

What is FROSTBITE? What does FROSTBITE mean? FROSTBITE meaning - FROSTBITE definition - FROSTBITE explanation.

Frostbite occurs when exposure to low temperatures causes freezing of the skin or other tissues.[1] The initial symptom is typically numbness.[1] This may be followed by clumsiness with a white or bluish color to the skin.[1] Swelling or blistering may occur following treatment.[1] The hands, feet, and face are most commonly affected.[4] Complications may include hypothermia or compartment syndrome.[2][1]

People who are exposed to low temperatures for prolonged periods, such as winter sports enthusiasts, military personnel, and homeless individuals, are at greatest risk.[6][1] Other risk factors include drinking alcohol, smoking, mental health problems, certain medications, and prior injuries due to cold.[1] The underlying mechanism involves injury from ice crystals and blood clots in small blood vessels following thawing.[1] Diagnosis is based on symptoms.[3] Severity may be divided into superficial (1st and 2nd degree) or deep (3rd and 4th degree).[2] A bone scan or MRI may help in determining the extent of injury.[1]

Prevention is through wearing proper clothing, maintaining hydration and nutrition, avoiding low temperatures, and staying active without becoming exhausted.[2] Treatment is by rewarming.[2] This should be done only when refreezing is not a concern.[1] Rubbing or applying snow to the affected part is not recommended.[2] The use of ibuprofen and tetanus toxoid is typically recommended.[1] For severe injuries iloprost or thrombolytics may be used.[1] Surgery is sometimes necessary.[1] Amputation, however, should generally be delayed for a few months to allow determination of the extent of injury.[2]

The number of cases of frostbite is unknown.[5] Rates may be as high as 40% a year among those who mountaineer.[1] The most common age group affected is those 30 to 50 years old.[4] Evidence of frostbite occurring in people dates back 5,000 years.[1] Frostbite has also played an important role in a number of military conflicts.[1] The first formal description of the condition was in 1814 by Dominique Jean Larrey, a physician in Napoleon's army.[1]
Source: Wikipedia.org