Frostbite is damage that occurs to skin and underlying tissues when they are exposed to extreme cold. Every part of the body is vulnerable to damage from frostbite. However, it most often occurs on the hands, feet, nose and ears.

The first sign of frostbite is often a sensation of “pins and needles” in the affected tissues. Some people also feel an early throbbing or aching. Gradually, this progresses to a feeling of numbness. As frostbite sets in, the skin appears hard and pale, and is cold to the touch. Extremely severe frostbite often is accompanied by blisters and other changes in the tissue. After the frozen tissue begins to warm and thaw, it often becomes red and extremely painful.

Damage from frostbite that is restricted to the skin and underlying tissues is not usually permanent. However, damage that extends to the blood vessels is likely to be permanent. In extreme cases, tissue damage may be so severe that amputation (surgical removal) of the affected body part may be necessary.

The chief method of preventing frostbite is to take precautions so that skin is not exposed to severe cold for excessive periods of time.