Financial Services > Health lnsurance > Frostbite - UK Health Insurance

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

 

[Previous]

 

[Food Poisoning] [Frostbite]

FROSTBITE

Tissue damage caused by extreme cold is termed as frostbite. It mostly occurs when the wind is blowing, rapidly drawing heat from the body. As a result of exposure to cold, the blood vessels constrict causing a decrease in the supply of blood to the chilled parts and depriving the tissues of the warmth needed.

TARGET GROUP:

Frostbite affects all age groups and all sexes but is most common in middle-aged males. Those people who have to work outdoors in the cold are usually affected, like soldiers. Frostbite is common in Alaska and Canada.

TYPE OF DISEASE:

Frostbite is characterized by the hard and cold quality of the skin, which is exposed to extreme cold temperatures making it insensitive to touch. The affected area becomes red and painful as it thaws.

 

SYMPTOMS:

The signs and symptoms of frostbite are not always apparent to the sufferer because frostbite has a numbing effect. The initial symptoms include coldness and firmness, followed by numbness and burning. Severe frostbite may cause gangrene (blackened, dead tissue), and damage to bone, muscles and nerves.

AFFECTED AREA:

The exposed parts of the body are usually affected by frostbite. They include the nose, cheeks, ears, toes, shins, corneas and fingers.

CAUSES:

Frostbite occurs when the skin and body tissues are exposed to cold temperature for a prolonged period of time. Tissues freeze quickly when in contact with thermal conductors such as volatile solutions and metals. It is also caused by constructive clothing or boots, immobility, or medications.

RISK TO OTHERS:

People suffering from disorder of the arteries have chances of getting frostbite. Those who use beta-blockers, which decrease the flow of blood to the skin, are susceptible to frostbite.Chances of frostbite are also increased by diabetes, nicotine use, and windy weather.

 

RISK TO SUFFERER:

Cellular dehydration takes place and capillaries get damaged. Recovery may be complete if only the skin and underlying tissues are damaged. The damage is permanent if blood vessels are affected, and gangrene can follow which can lead to amputation of the affected area.When combined with hypothermia or wound-related sepsis, death is possible.

TREATMENT:

Treatment for the early stages of frostbite involves placing the affected part close to the body for warmth without rubbing. In severe frostbite the tissue, may be damaged permanently so it should not be rubbed. Heat should not be applied and the affected area should be lightly covered for protection. The subject should seek medical help if the skin is frozen because thawing is very painful. The frozen tissue should be thawed by immersion in circulating hot water. Move thawed areas as little as possible.Smoking, tea; coffee should be avoided as it may constrict blood vessels.

[Previous]
Health Insurance Partners