Browse Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Preventing Frostbite

To help prevent frostbite, dress properly when going outside in cold weather. For example:

Cover your head, face, hands, and feet adequately.
Wear layers of clothing.
Wear materials that provide good insulation and keep moisture away from the skin (wool, polyester, polypropylene).
Make sure you wear a waterproof outer layer and stay dry.
Avoid drinking alcohol when you will be in cold weather.

RESOURCES:

American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.aafp.org

National Library of Medicine
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

About Kids Health
http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca

Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html

References:

Bjerke HS, Tevar A. Frostbite. Emedicine website. Available at: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic2815.htm .

Conn's Current Therapy 2001 . 53rd ed. WB Saunders Company; 2001.

Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice . 4th ed. Mosby-Year Book; 1998.

Mechem CC. Frostbite. Emedicine website. Available at: http://www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic209.htm .

Last reviewed February 2008 by Jill D. Landis, MD

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Talk about it in the:
Frostbite Support Group

Log In

User ID
Password
	Remember Me

	Forget your Password?