Frostbite risk rises amid bitterly cold weather

Health officials say a countrywide deep freeze has raised the risk of frostbite, noting that cases can develop quickly on exposed skin and that early warming and timely medical assessment are reported as important.

Health officials and emergency doctors in Canada are warning that a deep freeze has increased the risk of frostbite across much of the country. Frostbite occurs when skin freezes, and its early stage is called frostnip, which does not always cause permanent damage. Officials emphasize that exposures can lead to more serious injury, especially for people who are outdoors for long periods. Key points: - Emergency physicians and public health experts reported that the recent cold spell has raised frostbite risk in regions that do not usually see such extreme temperatures. - Early signs can resemble a sunburn and may include redness, numbness or tingling; more serious injury can involve blisters, loss of normal color, and in severe cases tissue loss. - Areas most prone to injury include exposed skin and extremities such as fingers, toes, ears and the face; Environment Canada noted wind chill can make frostbite develop within minutes on exposed skin. - Officials and hospital doctors reported that early rewarming and timely medical assessment are important, and that hospitals may use medications to improve circulation—such as iloprost and thrombolytics—in some cases. Summary: Officials say the cold spell has heightened frostbite risk, with particular concern for people exposed outdoors and those without shelter. Undetermined at this time.