Diagnosis & Treatment of Frostbite
Diagnosis & Treatment of Frostbite
CAUTION: If the affected area might be re-frozen before you get medical help, do not warm it; this greatly increases the risk of damage. Also, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes unless it's absolutely necessary.
At the hospital, frostbite is usually treated comprehensively because its severity cannot be diagnosed in the first few days. Usually, patients need to be admitted for observation. Initially, the hospital staff will probably do the following:
Later hospital treatment may include whirlpool therapy and physical therapy to promote circulation. Surgery, including amputation of the affected area, is sometimes necessary. Amputation is performed only if the tissues are dead. This determination is typically made between three and six weeks after the injury.
Understanding Frostbite -- Diagnosis and Treatment
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What Are the Treatments for Frostbite? continued...
CAUTION: If the affected area might be re-frozen before you get medical help, do not warm it; this greatly increases the risk of damage. Also, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes unless it's absolutely necessary.
At the hospital, frostbite is usually treated comprehensively because its severity cannot be diagnosed in the first few days. Usually, patients need to be admitted for observation. Initially, the hospital staff will probably do the following:
- Rapidly warm the affected area in water for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Remove blisters that contain clear or milky fluid and cover them with a topical antibiotic, petroleum jelly, or aloe vera gel. Blisters that contain blood may not be removed.
- Splint and elevate the affected area and wrap it in a loose bandage.
- Administer ibuprofen to limit inflammation, tetanus toxoid to prevent tetanus infection, and antibiotics to prevent or treat infection. Narcotic drugs may be needed to treat pain as sensation returns.
Later hospital treatment may include whirlpool therapy and physical therapy to promote circulation. Surgery, including amputation of the affected area, is sometimes necessary. Amputation is performed only if the tissues are dead. This determination is typically made between three and six weeks after the injury.