Frostbite is a medical emergency caused by prolonged exposure to extreme cold temperatures that results in skin and tissue damage.

Sometimes experienced by winter sports enthusiasts, Frostbite is characterized by cold, numbness, a whitish or yellowish skin tone and severe pain. Hands and fingers affected by frostbite may sustain damaged muscles, tendons, nerves and even bones, leading in severe cases to loss of tissue. Rapid immersion in warm water (about 104° Fahrenheit) is imperative. It is also important to avoid any rubbing of the affected area, as this may cause further tissue damage.