Frostbite
What it is
Frostbite occurs when part of the body freezes after being exposed to extreme cold temperature. The skin becomes very pale and firm to the touch, and the affected area loses all sensation. Frostbite is different from chilblains, which are red, swollen, painful, or itchy patches that develop after exposure to cold, damp conditions.
Mild frostbite: The skin may tingle and feel numb, cold, and white, but it remains soft. Moving or using the affected area may be more difficult.
Deep frostbite: The skin is cold and may appear white or mottled (with several colours). The affected area is hard and has no sensation. Go to the hospital right away.
What you can do at home
What to do
- Remove any wet or damp clothing and all jewellery.
- Cover up well to stay warm.
For mild frostbite
- Soak the affected area in warm, but not hot, water, as tolerated.
- If the area cannot be immersed in water, apply a cloth soaked in warm water.
- Continue warming the area until the skin becomes red and more supple, even if the pain decreases.
- Warm the affected area for 20 to 40 minutes.
- Let the skin air-dry or gently pat it dry. Do not rub.
- Drink warm, but not hot, beverages unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise.
- To relieve pain, ibuprofen (Advil) is preferred because of its anti-inflammatory effect. When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.
After warming the affected area
- Handle the area gently. Do not rub or massage it.
- Apply aloe vera gel only if there are no cuts or open wounds.
- If a blister develops, cover it with a bandage. Do not break/pop the blister.
- If the fingers or toes are swollen, place clean gauze or cloth between them to protect the skin.
- Raise the affected body part above the level of the heart several times a day and as often as possible to reduce pain and swelling.
- Protect the skin with lightweight clothing.
- Protect the affected area from the cold for 6 months after mild frostbite and 12 months after deep frostbite.
À éviter
- Rubbing or massaging the affected area.
- Walking on a foot that has frostbite.
- Applying ice or snow to skin that has frostbite.
- Using a direct heat source, such as a wood stove or hair dryer.
- Heavy blankets.
- Caffeine and alcohol.
When to seek medical attention
A new blister filled with clear fluid
Skin that turns black
Skin around the frostbite that becomes red, swollen, or warm, or the presence of pus (yellow-green fluid)
Pain that gets worse despite following the recommended advice
Need help?
Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.
Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.
Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.
If you do not have a family doctor, go to gap.soinsvirtuels or call 811, Option 3.
When to go to the hospital right away
Signs of hypothermia, including any of the following:
- very cold skin;
- skin that turns blue;
- drowsiness or difficulty staying awake;
- intense shivering;
- severe fatigue;
- confusion;
- difficulty speaking or moving.
Frostbite that appears deep or severe
Skin that does not become warm or pink again after 60 minutes of warming
Blood-filled blisters
Severe swelling of the affected area
Severe pain that does not go away or gets worse despite following the recommended advice