Untreated frostbite can cause growth defects (especially in children) and infection, [simple_tooltip text=tetanus tooltip=A serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and causes painful muscle contractions. ], [simple_tooltip text=gangrene tooltip=A condition that leads to the death of tissue as a result of a serious injury, bacterial infection, or interrupted blood supply. ], or even permanent loss of sensation in the affected area. Prolonged exposure to cold can also lead to hypothermia (a potentially dangerous drop in your body temperature).