(HealthDayNews) -- Frigid temperatures mean skin that's exposed for too long are prone to frostbite, when affected areas feels rock hard and develops a white, waxy, or purplish appearance.
If you get frostbite, The Nemours Foundation advises you:
- Seek medical care.
- Come indoors immediately and remove wet clothing.
- Treat frozen parts gently; don't rub them.
- Warm the frozen parts in warm water (not hot) for about 30 minutes. Don't use dry heat, such as a fireplace, to thaw frostbite.
- Warm your entire body by wrapping yourself in a blanket.
- Place clean cotton balls between frostbitten fingers and toes after they've been warmed.
- Loosely wrap warmed areas with clean bandages to prevent refreezing.
