Frostbite: Care Instructions

Overview

Frostbite is freezing of the skin and tissues below the skin. It occurs when someone is exposed to freezing temperatures for too long. Frostbite most often happens to exposed parts of the body, like the fingers, toes, ears, and nose.

Treatment for frostbite includes relieving pain and quickly rewarming the frostbitten body parts if there is no risk of the body parts freezing again. This can help prevent problems such as infection, dead skin tissue, and possible amputation of the frozen part.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • Store your prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
  • Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to.
• Protect skin that has been injured by frostbite.
  • Do not expose frostbitten skin to cold temperatures.
  • Use sunscreen and protective clothing. They can protect frostbitten skin from damage by the sun.
  • Do not rub or massage the injured area.
• Do not disturb blisters or other sores.
• Apply aloe vera to your skin as directed by your doctor.
• Don’t smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products. They can interfere with healing. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Avoid alcohol. It can slow recovery.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Any cold-injured body part is cool or pale or changes color.
• Your pain gets worse.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from any blisters.
  • Fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.