Frostbite Ain't Right

Hey, guys! If you're in Ohio right now, you're likely feeling the cold just like I am. The temperature outside is in the negatives, meaning that it's dangerous to be out and about. Since it's so terrible outside, I thought I'd take a minute to talk about the dangers of frostbite. I've seen some students scoff at this cold weather and go out completely unprepared, which can be extremely hazardous. I've provided a video above for you guys to watch from Inside Edition. Since most of my readers are students, I think this video will be most useful to you guys. Here is some more specific information about frostbite.

What is frostbite? 

According to the Mayo Clinic, frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and the issue lying underneath.

What are the symptoms?

Here are some of the signs and symptoms the Mayo Clinic says to lookout for.

• At first, cold skin and a prickling feeling
• Numbness
• Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin
• Hard or waxy-looking skin
• Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
• Blistering after rewarming, in severe cases

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Signs and symptoms of superficial or deep frostbite
• Increased pain, swelling, redness or discharge in the area that was frostbitten
• Fever
• New, unexplained symptoms

If you do have to go outside for whatever reason, never fear! Here are some tips on how to prevent frostbite.

Prevention:

• Limit time you're outdoors in cold, wet or windy weather.
• Dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing. 
• Wear a hat or headband that fully covers your ears.
• Wear mittens rather than gloves. Mittens provide better protection.
• Wear socks and sock liners that fit well, wick moisture and provide insulation.
• Watch for signs of frostbite. Seek warm shelter if you notice signs of frostbite.
• Plan to protect yourself. When traveling in cold weather, carry emergency supplies and warm clothing in case you become stranded.
• Don't drink alcohol if you plan to be outdoors in cold weather.
• Eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated. Doing this even before you go out in the cold will help you stay warm.
• Keep moving.

If you guys want more information on frostbite, feel free to visit the Mayo Clinic website right here. Stay safe out there!