What are the symptoms of frostbite?
As one of our Nebraska readers, you know that spending time outdoors during the winter months typically means enduring cold temperatures.
While there is nothing wrong with going outdoors when it’s cold, especially to do your job, there’s something to remember: frostbite is very real.
It’s imperative that your understand the symptoms of frostbite, as this knowledge can go a long way in helping you avoid trouble. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms:
- Numbness
- A cold and prickling feeling of the skin
- Red, white or bluish skin
- Skin that appears waxy
- Clumsiness as the result of muscle stiffness
- Blistering after seeking refuge indoors
Although frostbite can impact many different parts of the body, it’s most common on the toes, fingers, ears, nose, chin and cheeks.
Due to the fact that frostbite causes skin numbness, you may not realize right away that you are suffering from this condition unless someone else brings it to your attention. This is why it’s so important to pay attention to the warning signs.
If you have reason to believe that you have suffered from frostbite, don’t delay in seeking medical treatment. An experienced medical team will know how to deal with the issue in a timely manner.
If you suffered frostbite on the job, maybe because you were asked to work too many consecutive hours in the cold weather, you may be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. You want to make sure you learn more about potential benefits, as your frostbite may prohibit you from immediately returning to work.
Source: Mayo Clinic, “Symptoms,” accessed Sep. 25, 2017