Frostbite in Chicago

Protect your child from frostbite this winter season. Wit the temperatures dipping down and the cold creeping up on us, knowing how to protect your child from frostbite can be more important than ever.

Brrr…. it’s f-f-f-freezing out there! No matter which groundhog you listened to, the fact is that we have plenty of below-freezing days left until warm weather arrives. Protecting ourselves with warm clothing is important to anyone at any age when we venture into the cold, but for children, exposure to freezing weather can be downright dangerous.

Who is At Risk for Frostbite in Chicago?

Infants and children are at far greater risk for frostbite – frozen body tissue – because they lose heat more rapidly through smaller fingers, ears, toes, cheeks, heads and noses. In extreme cold, frostbite can develop within minutes.

What to Do If You Suspect Frostbite?

If your child’s skin feels hard and waxy, with a white or grayish yellow color, or they complain of aching pain or numbness, take these steps while you call our office:

• Bring your child in out of the cold immediately and remove any wet clothing.
• Do not thaw the frostbitten area if there is a risk it will refreeze before you see your us or urgent care.
• Fill a sink or bowl with warm (not hot) water and immerse or apply to affected parts for about 30 minutes.
• Do not rub the area or rub snow on it.
• Don’t break any blisters that may appear.
• Place cotton balls between fingers and toes after warming, then loosely wrap in sterile dressings.
• Do not let your child walk on frostbitten feet; carry them into our office or urgent care.

Frostbite can be a serious problem that you need to consider when it comes to your child and being outside. Learning how to protect your child from frostbite is usually the best course of action.

How to Protect Your Child From Frostbite in Chicago?

Getting your kids outside every day is important to their health and development, but make sure you’re taking the proper steps to avoid frostbite. In the minutes you move your infant from the car to the store, to daycare or to school, remember that those tiny fingers, tiny ears and tiny toes are at risk. It might be easier to just zip up that coat and leave off the mittens and hat, but each second in sub-freezing temperatures is dangerous.

• Dress kids of all ages in loose-fitting, layered clothes and coats, including scarves.
• Make sure toddlers and children are wearing thick socks and insulated boots.
• Mittens and hats should be used every time your infant or child is exposed to cold air, no matter how briefly your child is outside.

There is nothing wrong with getting your child outside to play and have some fun in the snow and cold. In fact, it can be one of the best things for the health of your child. Parents just need to do so in a safe manner.  Protect your child from frostbite and they will be able to have a ton of fun, even in the winter weather.

Enjoy the winter weather – safely!

Keeping Your Child Safe This Winter in Chicago

No matter the weather in your area, there is always the potential for frostbite and other issues for your child. You can protect your child from frostbite, and other issues this winter with the help of our team at Alzein Pediatrics.

We can provide the comprehensive care that you need to make sure that your child is always happy and healthy. Contact us for an appointment today.