Trumm Drug

January News

Frostbite & Hypothermia- Conditions to Be Watchful of this Winter!

Winter in Minnesota can be fun with so many outdoor activities to enjoy; however, it can be dangerous as well. Frostbite and hypothermia are two “cold weather” related conditions that can occur and need to be treated seriously. Knowing some of the telltale signs of each of these, as well as how to treat them, can make the difference between temporary discomfort and lasting effects.

Frostbite…. How can I identify symptoms?
Be aware of: area of numbness, redness or pain or white/grayish-yellow skin area, and skin that feels unusually firm or waxy.
Basic Treatment: get person to warm area and/or warm affected area ASAP, use body heat to warm area, DO NOT use anything hot (i.e. heating pad, stove, etc.) to warm skin as it may burn easily due to lack of sensation, DO NOT rub or massage affected area as this can cause more damage.

Hypothermia is abnormally low body temperature, and occurs whenever your body loses more heat than it generates.
Signs/Symptoms: shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and fumbling.
Basic Treatment: get out of the cold, and into warm dry clothes and setting, drink warm, sweet liquids- NOT ALCOHOL- which are useful at raising body temperature. If the case is severe- person loses consciousness- SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY!

For more detailed information and advice about frostbite and hypothermia, click on the Health & Wellness box (smiley face!) on the top right side of this page, then click on “continue>>” under the Health & Wellness article or click here. At the Trumm Drug Health Mart page, type “Frostbite” into the ADVANCED SEARCH window, and then click on “Frostbite” at the top of the list or click here.

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