Frostbite in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

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

Treatment includes relieving pain and quickly rewarming the frostbitten body parts. Rewarming is done only 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 child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • Do not give aspirin to children and teens. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a rare but serious illness.
  • Store your child’s 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 give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• 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 child's skin as directed by your doctor.

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 child's pain gets worse.
• Your child has symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from any blisters.
  • A fever.

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

• Your child does not get better as expected.