Frostbite injuries reported as temperatures plummet

DAYTON — Doctors at Miami Valley Hospital said they’ve had a few minor cold-related injuries as temperatures across the Miami Valley has plummeted below zero and in single digits in spots.

Dr. Emily Maupin is an emergency medicine physician at Premier Health and over the last week they’ve had some very minor frostbite injuries and expect to see some fall-related injuries as black ice develops due to the cold temperatures.

“It seems to be anybody and everybody,” Maupin said.  “Nobody is immune to the cold.”

The American Academy of Dermatology offers the following information to protect yourself from frostbite:

• Dress is loose, light, comfortable layers
• Protect your feet and toes
• Protect your head
• Protect your hands
• Make sure snow doesn't get inside your boots or clothing
• Keep yourself hydrated
• Recognize symptoms of frostbite.

The first signs of frostbite include redness and a stinging, burning, throbbing or prickling sensation followed by numbness, the academy of dermatology said.

Maupin said if you suspect frostbite is developing it is not a good idea to run hot water on the body part, but instead get yourself into a warm area to warm the body part up.