Frostbite and Children
This condition occurs when tissues are exposed to cold long enough to fall to a dangerously low temperature. As with all medical issues, there are varying degrees that may require different kinds of treatment.
Children are particularly prone to damage from cold and other elements. Because they are small, they can lose heat quickly. They also are less likely to notice that they are cold and thus do not cover up or otherwise protect themselves.
Last, children tend to enjoy outdoor activities even when it is cold, icy, or snowing. They are outside in these conditions more often and thus at higher risk.
In the very first stages of this condition, the skin will become extremely red. Children who are old enough to talk may describe feeling numb or having a tingling feeling. The skin will then turn yellow and cold but remain soft. As the condition progresses, the skin will become white and hard. The area will become completely numb, so children are not aware of their injury.
Certain areas are more susceptible to damage from the cold. Fingers and toes can be affected if the child does not have appropriate gloves and footwear, or if these become wet. Noses, cheeks, and ears are also at high risk because they usually cannot be completely covered in freezing conditions.
