Frostbite vs. Frostnip and Prevention in Children

Frostbite occurs when ice crystals form in the skin or tissues resulting in damage to the affected body parts. It can be serious and needs medical attention. Frostnip is a mild early form of frostbite that does not cause permanent harm to tissues and can typically be cared for at home. Body parts most often affected are nose, ears, cheeks, fingers, and toes. 

Frostbite or frostnip may occur with exposure to cold temperatures, wind chill, and dampness. It occurs more frequently in children due to their reduced body mass, losing heat from their skin more quickly, and playing outdoors for extended periods of time. The type of clothing worn is important in preventing frostbite or frostnip. 

Symptoms of frostnip include reddened, cold skin and feelings of tingling, numbness, and discomfort in the affected body part.

​Symptoms of frostbite include skin that was initially red then becomes white, gray, yellowish, or even black. Tingling, burning, or numbness may also be present and the skin may feel hard, waxy, and swollen. In addition, blisters or sores may become apparent on the affected area. Frostbite can result in damage to the deeper tissues of the body. If you suspect your child may have frostbite, they would need to receive medical attention.

Prevention of frostbite or frostnip requires dressing your child in warm, dry, layers of clothing that are not restrictive and making sure ears, fingers, and toes are well protected. Monitor the temperature and wind chill, and adjust playing time accordingly. Bringing children in for frequent times to warm up when playing outside is important. If clothing, mittens, or boots become damp have the child change into dry clothing. Provide warm drinks or snacks when coming in from playing, and make sure to check ears, fingers, and toes for signs of cold exposure.

Treatment of frostnip at home includes bringing your child inside and dressing them in warm dry clothing. Warm blankets or towels may be applied. The affected area may be put in warm (but not hot) water for up to 30 minutes. Do not rub the affected area and do not use direct heat or heating pads.

Treatment of frostbite involves the same care as frostnip as you await medical care. In addition, after the body part has been warmed, put clean gauze between fingers and toes and wrap loosely with a warm cloth to protect the area and prevent further exposure to cold. Seek medical care as soon as possible from your medical provider as frostbite may cause serious tissue damage.
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References:
https://healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Cold-Weather-Safety.aspx
https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=frostbite-in-children-90-P02820