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Another arctic blast raises concerns about frostbite

Posted at 2:45 PM, Mar 03, 2019
and last updated 2019-03-03 15:58:58-05

With our recent bitterly cold temperatures, frostbite becomes a concern for people outdoors.

Frostbite starts as coldness and numbness, usually in your fingers and toes. Prolonged exposure might lead to exposed areas turning white.

While warm water and body heat can be enough to treat mild cases of frostbite, Bozeman Deaconess Hospital Physician Dr. Eric Lowe says that there are important signs of severe frostbite where you need to get help from a doctor immediately.

“If the color is not improving with warming up, that person should be seen by somebody for medical evaluation. Signs of more severe would be blisters or any color changes with things looking blue, red, or black.” Lowe said.

In temps as low as we’ve seen lately, frostbite can set in within minutes if you’re not properly dressed.