Spending time in freezing temperatures or coming into contact with something extremely cold, such as ice cubes or an ice pack, can damage the skin tissue and cause an ice burn.
In this article, learn about the symptoms and causes of ice burns, as well as how to treat them and when to see a doctor.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an ice burn can include:
- red, white, dark, or gray skin
- pain
- blisters
- numbness
- tingling
- itchiness
- hard or waxy skin
When a person experiences an ice burn, several things happen to the tissue:
- the water in the skin cells begins to freeze
- the frozen water forms ice crystals, which damage the skin cells
- the blood vessels constrict, reducing blood flow and delivery of oxygen to the area
- blood clots may form, further restricting blood flow and oxygen
- bleeding can occur if the cold temperature affects blood-clotting proteins
Ice burns can cause scarring. The likelihood of scarring depends on many factors, including the area of the ice burn and how many layers of tissue are affected.
The skin consists of several layers. These include an outer layer, known as the epidermis, and a lower layer, called the dermis. Beneath these layers are tissues that include muscles, tendons, and other connective tissue.
If a burn only penetrates the epidermis, it may not cause significant scarring. However, injuries that affect the dermis or the tissues beneath it are more complex wounds that can leave scars.
Ice burn vs. frostbite
There is little difference between ice burn and frostbite. The term ice burn refers to burns that result from contact with ice or ice packs.
Frostbite occurs when the exposure of parts of the body to extremely cold temperatures freezes the skin and the tissue beneath it.
Frostbite that penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and damages tissue and bone can cause permanent damage.
- using gauze to protect the skin from dirt and germs
- increasing fluid intake for hydration
- taking an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever if necessary
- applying a soothing ointment, such as aloe vera, to unbroken skin
- seeking medical advice regarding the necessity of a tetanus shot
It is vital to warm up the skin gradually rather than using very hot water or air, as extreme heat could make the injury worse.
When to see a doctor
People can usually treat superficial ice burns at home using first aid. These burns often heal without the need for further medical attention.
If a person experiences a more severe ice burn, they should see a doctor and may require hospital treatment.
The signs and symptoms of a severe ice burn include:
- skin turning and remaining white, dark, or gray
- skin feeling numb
- skin that feels cold or hard after warming
- the affected body part being less able to function
- blood-filled blisters
- injury-related ice burn
These signs may indicate damage to the tissue underneath the skin. Tissue damage may require more intensive medical or surgical treatment.
Any signs of infection will also require medical treatment. A person should see a doctor if they experience the following symptoms:
- changes to the color of the burn
- pus or green discharge leaking from the burn site
- fever
- increased pain
- the affected body part being less able to perform its function
If the affected area remains white, dark, or gray rather than pink or red and does not start tingling or burning as it warms up, this could signify more extensive damage that requires medical attention.
Anyone concerned about an ice burn should speak to a doctor for a proper evaluation.
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