Frostnip is the mildest of cold-related injuries but should still be taken seriously. Typically it affects any skin that remains uncovered for a period of time in cold temperatures. You may find you have a pale appearance, burning, itching, pain, tingling or numbness in your face, ears, toes and fingers. Rewarming the affected areas is often sufficient with no permanent damage to the skin.
Frostbite is more serious, and occurs with prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.
While you may feel the same symptoms as frostnip, the skin and underlying tissues are freezing and need attention. Frostbite symptoms may also include blisters, firm-feeling skin, a loss of sensation in the area, and changes in color from red and cold, to pale yellow, to grey or black. Everything beyond red and cold may require medical attention.
Hypothermia is a severe cold-weather injury with symptoms that can include confusion, memory loss, drowsiness, slurred speech, exhaustion and death. Anyone who is suspected of suffering from hypothermia should seek medical attention immediately.
