Medical Minute: Understanding, treating and preventing frostbite in dangerously cold weather

Bone-chilling temperatures are headed for our region, which increases the chances of frostbite if we are outside for too long. Young children and infants, as well as older adults and seniors, should be especially careful when heading outdoors.

Frostbite leads to a loss of feeling and color in the areas it affects, most commonly the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes. Being prepared is your best defense.

Brandon Hopkins, nurse practitioner, MedPoint Urgent Care Goshen, discusses the causes of frostbite and explains whether someone suffering symptoms should visit urgent care or head to the emergency room. He also offers important reminders about how to prevent frostbite in our new Medical Minute.

Click here for additional information about frostbite from the Centers for Disease Control.