Chapter 2

Figure 2-2. Superficial frostbite.

Figure 2-3. Deep frostbite.

Contributing Factors
2-98. Factors that contribute to frostbite are—

Dehydration.

Below-freezing temperatures.

Skin contact with super cooled metals or liquids.

Use of caffeine, tobacco, or alcohol.

Neglect.
Symptoms
2-99. Symptoms of frostbite vary and may include a cold feeling, pain, burning, numbness, and, in the final
stages, a false sense of warmth. The skin first turns red, then pale. It may be bluish in color and then may
appear frosty or waxy white. The skin may feel hard, may not be movable over the joints and bony
prominences, or may be frozen. Identification of deep versus superficial frostbite is difficult to determine
and often requires three to seven days after rewarming for medical personnel to diagnose. Blisters,
swelling, and pain may occur after thawing.
Treatment
2-100. Using the buddy system is one of the primary ways to prevent frostbite. Buddies must watch each
other for symptoms of frostbite and provide mutual aid if frostbite occurs. Frostbite should be identified
early with prompt first-aid care applied to prevent further damage.

Treat early signs of frostbite by rewarming with skin-to-skin contact or by sheltering the body
part under the clothing next to the body. Do this immediately. If tissues have frozen, evacuate the
victim before they thaw. If the feet are involved, evacuate the victim as a litter patient.

Thawing of a frostbitten victim is a hospital procedure. If the victim has frostbite with frozen
extremities, protect the frozen parts and evacuate as a litter patient.

If frostbite is not recognized before it thaws, do not let the area refreeze since this causes more
damage. The most often-affected body parts are the hands, fingers, toes, feet, ears, chin, and
nose. If evacuation of the victim as a litter case is not possible and the body part has not yet
thawed, have the victim walk out on his own. Walking out on frozen feet is better than having

2-20

TC 3-97.61

26 July 2012