Frostbite

Damage to tissues caused by extremely cold temperatures. Frostbite can affect any part of the body, but the extremities (the nose, ears, fingers, and toes) are most susceptible. The first symptoms of frostbite are a pins-andneedles sensation, followed by complete numbness. The skin appears white, cold, and hard and then becomes red and swollen. If damage is restricted to the skin and immediately underlying tissues, recovery may be complete. If blood vessels are affected, gangrene may follow. In such cases, amputation of the affected part may be necessary.