frostbite

frostbite Damage to tissues that results from exposure to extreme cold. The tissues become injured from blood clotting and ice-crystal formation. Severe frostbite can result in death of the tissues (gangrene). The best way to warm a frozen part is to put it into a tub of hot water at 40°C to 42°C (104°F to 108°F). The extremity should not be thawed if there is a risk of it refreezing, which could further damage tissue. Warming over a fire or next to a heater should be avoided due to the risk of burns or dehydration of the injured tissue. The extremity should not be rubbed with snow because any rubbing may aggravate the injury. There may be considerable pain when the frostbitten area is rewarmed. See also cold injury.