Frostbite a Threat During Recent Cold Weather

With some of the coldest days of the winter upon our region, frostbite is real concern for area residents.

Frostbite can be extremely dangerous and happens when the skin and tissue underneath freezes. Symptoms include numbness and tingling. The skin may also turn pale and hard. Frostbite typically affects smaller, more exposed areas of your body.

"Ears, nose, fingers, toes should always be covered up properly when you go out, so wear a hat or earmuffs to cover your ears, have a good gloves and good socks that are warm and won't get wet," family practitioner Dr. Justin Davis said. "If you suspect you or somebody you know might have frostbite, then it's very important to alert a doctor or usually any kind of medical emergency professional."

Although anyone who is exposed to freezing cold for a prolonged period of time can get frostbite, people who are taking beta-blockers, which decrease the flow of blood to the skin, are particularly susceptible.