Beware of bitter temperatures

As Western New York soldiers through winter, lots of people still head outdoors -- for recreation, like skiing, and to do the routine tasks of snow shoveling, snow-blowing and car-window scraping. All keep us exposed to the elements.

And that can make those activities hazardous, some local health professionals said.

If done in temperatures that are too cold -- or if the exposure is not handled with proper care -- people can end up with health problems as a result of their outdoor time, said Dr. Richard Dudrak II, medical director of urgent care at Lifetime Health Medical Group in Western New York.

The risk can increase if you are heading into a rustic enclosure -- like a barn, ice-fishing shed or ski cabin -- that is unheated and even colder than the surrounding air.

"We see a variety of injuries this time of year caused by either inadequate protection from the elements, prolonged exposure, or both," said Dudrak. "The extent of injury is related to the duration of the exposure and the temperature -- so it's important for people to realize ... they can be taking great risks."

Here's what you need to watch for:

Frostnip or chilblain:

These terms refer to temporary damage done to skin that is exposed to frigid temperatures for too long, said Dudrak. Often, in frostnip, exposed areas like the earlobes, cheeks, nose, fingers and toes will turn white, and they may feel burning or prickling sensations.

Symptoms of frostnip generally go away quickly when the area is warmed, the doctor said.

But in cases of chilblain, he said, when the affected areas turn red or purple and become painful or itchy, the symptoms can take a few days -- or even weeks -- to abate.

Frostbite:

This is more serious than frostnip or chilblains. In frostbite, skin cells are damaged through prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures, Dudrak said. Exposure to cold metal, water, or other objects can also boost your risk factors for frostbite, he said.

"Especially in the extreme, below-zero wind chills we've been experiencing," he said, "people should be careful not to leave any skin exposed to the elements for any length of time."

Hypothermia:

This is serious business. Hypothermia means a drop in core body temperature to below 95 degrees. It can mean serious complications and can even be deadly in extreme cases, said Dudrak.

"Those who have been exposed to the cold for any length of time and have slowed breathing or heart rate, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, or in any way don't seem to be rebounding from being outside, I'd recommend you contact your physician or an urgent care center," said Dudrak.

What can you do to prevent any of these conditions in the first place?

Try these tips and techniques suggested by medical professionals at Lifetime Health:

* Limit your exposure time outdoors in cold weather.
* Dress in layers, and be sure to cover your face, ears, eyes and hands.
* Take in fluids, but stay away from alcohol and caffeine.
* Make sure your boots are warm, waterproof and not too tight.
* If you suspect a problem, change to dry, warm clothing and cover the affected area with blankets. Then call your doctor.


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Although this was written about and for WNY weather, it applies EVERYWHERE it gets cold!