Treatment of Frostbite

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If you are also suffering from hypothermia, treat for hypothermia first and then treat for frostbite.

Frostbite requires immediate medical attention. If a medical professional is not available, follow these steps:

• Immediately submerge the affected area into warm water, 104°F to 110°F (40°C to 43.3°C), for 20 to 40 minutes.
• Warming the affected area can be very painful. Take aspirin or acetaminophen to help dull the pain. Do not remove the affected area from the water simply because sensation is returning.
• If you have an antiseptic solution (e.g., hydrogen peroxide), add that to the water.
• If you do not have access to warm water, place the affected area against a warm body part (e.g., under an armpit) or heat by breathing on the affected area.
• Do not rub or massage the affected area.
• If blisters develop, cover them with gauze to prevent them from opening. An open blister can cause a serious infection.
• Elevate the affected area.
• If the frostbite is on the feet, do not walk.
• Do not use direct heat, such as standing in front of a fire or applying a heating pad.
• Wrap yourself in blankets for protection from the wind. Keep as warm as possible.
• Do not smoke. Smoking slows down the circulation of blood to the extremities.
• Drink warm, nonalcoholic beverages. Alcohol causes the blood to lose heat rapidly.
• Do not warm the affected area if there is a chance that it will freeze again. Instead, wait until you have reached shelter.