I was thinking how could, I, a lover of all summer weather, deal with this frigid cold?
Not only for myself but for the dogs, too. The dogs were easy enough, 2 sweaters each and their winter coats…..along with their natural fur coats, I figured that would keep them warm enough. But what about me?
Here was the fashion statement I made. One pair thermal pants under one pair yoga pants under one pair sweatpants……one t shirt, one velour pullover, one sweatshirt……two pair socks and UGGS boots……one hat, one scarf, one down coat, one pair of light gloves under one pair of snow gloves……..( I was starting to feel like the little brother from “A Christmas Story”.)
I was ready to face the outside. The dogs were walking at a really good clip, faster than they have walked in a long time……I wasn’t feeling too bad…until the winds blew……O my goodness……I was freezing!!!!! My toes and fingers were starting to hurt…..I was walking as fast as the dogs. Finally, we made it back home, but I was still cold........I realized I knew nothing about frostbite or any other injuries you can get from being outside in the cold.
So I decided to research cold weather injury.
There are three degrees of cold injury: frostnip, superficial frostbite and deep frostbite. Frostbite is caused when body tissue — usually exposed body parts away from your core like fingers, toes, ears or nose — freezes due to prolonged exposure to cold and a low wind-chill factor.
Frostbite can result in permanent damage to affected tissues and in extreme cases, may lead to amputation of affected areas. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and those who aren’t dressed properly.
Know the Symptoms
Frostnip:
• This is a mild form, where only the skin freezes. Skin may appear yellowish or white but feels soft if touched.
• Painful tingling or burning sensation.
Superficial frostbite:
• “Pins and needles” feeling followed by numbness.
• Hard, pale and cold skin that has been exposed to the cold for too long.
• Aching or throbbing.
• Lack of sensation; you may not feel the affected body part if someone touches you there.
• Red and painful as the area thaws.
Severe frostbite:
• Blisters.
• Gangrene (blackened, dead tissue).
• Damage to tendons, muscles, nerves and bone.
Frostbite Treatment Tips
• Move to a warm location as fast as possible.
• Soak the affected area in warm (not hot) water.
• Unless absolutely necessary, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes — this increases the damage.
• Do not rub or massage the area as this can cause more damage.
• Do not use a heating pad, fireplace or radiator for warming. Since the affected areas are likely numb, they easily can be burned.
• Warm the affected area using body heat. For frostbit fingers, place hands under armpits.
Dress smart: Wear mittens (not gloves); wind-proof, water-resistant, layered clothing; two pairs of socks; and a hat or scarf that covers the ears (to avoid substantial heat loss through the scalp).
Be aware of hypothermia: Signs include stiff muscles, puffy face, slurred speech, shivering uncontrollably, slowed breathing, poor physical condition and mental confusion. If these symptoms are present, call 911
adapted from Barnabas.org