Frostbite and its Stages

Frostbite is a freezing injury that occurs when tissues are exposed to temperatures below their freezing point, leading to ice crystal formation, cellular lysis, and microvascular occlusion. Frostbite is classified into four stages: first degree (numbness, erythema, edema), second degree (clear blisters, erythema, edema), third degree (hemorrhagic blisters, deep numbness), and fourth degree (necrosis, gangrene). Despite the staging, the treatment for frostbite remains consistent: rapid and gentle re-warming of the affected area with consistent warm water between 37 to 39 degrees Celsius.