Frostbite and Urgent Care

Looking for an urgent care center that treats frostbite? According to the Mayo Clinic, frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. Some of the more common signs of frostbite include feeling a prickling sensation, a numbing sensation, experiencing muscle stiffness and skin that looks waxy or is taking on a different color, such as white, red, bluish-white or grayish-yellow.

How does an urgent care center treat frostbite?

Patients will be asked what kind of symptoms they are currently experiencing, as well as how long they have been experiencing their frostbite symptoms. Once the medical professional who is assisting them understands more about their particular case of frostbite, they can then provide them with the necessary treatment.

When a patient has frostbite, they will be categorized into one of three different stages — minimal, moderate and severe frostbite. In order to place a patient into the right category, medical professionals will require the patient to undergo certain tests that help them determine the severity of their frostbite; these tests include X-rays, MRIs and bone scans. First-stage patients will often be treated through a gradual warming process, which can reverse any symptoms the patient is currently experiencing. Second and third-stage patients will often require some type of wound care, tissue removal, physical therapy and often need to take medication for pain.

What causes frostbite?

According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common cause of frostbite is exposure to cold weather conditions, but it can also be caused by direct contact with ice, frozen metal or very cold liquids. This makes it very important for anyone who is outside in cold weather to wear the appropriate clothing to protect their skin from cold weather damage. When cold weather drops to about 5°F, the risk of getting frostbite greatly increases. It is possible for someone to get frostbite in as little as 30 minutes when their skin is not properly protected from the cold.

When to seek medical help for frostbite

While it is possible for someone who has a very minor case of frostbite to treat themselves at home, most cases of frostbite do require the care of a medical professional. It is important for a case of frostbite to be professionally treated when there is no feeling to parts of the skin, and when the skin is hard when touched and/or takes on a white, gray or blue color. For those who are experiencing signs of hypothermia along with their case of frostbite, like intense shivering, slurred speech and extreme drowsiness, it important for them to immediately seek professional medical assistance.

Are you in need of frostbite treatment?

Do you have frostbite? Our urgent care center can treat your case of frostbite. It really is essential that you seek treatment for your frostbite as soon as possible as if you do not seek treatment in a timely manner, it is possible for you to experience permanent damage.

Are you considering urgent care services in the Manassas area? Get more information at https://hoadly.millenniummedicalcare.com.

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