When frostbite occurs, the fluid between the cells in the tissue freezes. When it freezes, it forms ice crystals that pull more water out of the cells. The dehydration of the cells affects how the cells function. They need fluid to perform properly. Damage is also caused by the rubbing together of the ice crystals.
Ice crystals have sharp edges that act like glass.
When the skin or muscles of the body are frozen they cannot work properly. Blood can't flow through the body and this can cause injuries. Frostbite is not life threatening but the tissues can be permanently damaged and in the most serious cases, the tissue may have to be amputated. Tell students that thereare different stages of frostbite. The longer the body is exposed, the worse the condition gets.