A dangerous cold snap expected to hit the region next week has medical professionals warning residents about the serious risks of frostbite.
AKRON, Ohio — Meteorologists are forecasting a prolonged period of temperatures in the single digits and below zero for Northeast Ohio early next week, which is expected to be one of the most extreme cold spells in recent memory.
According to Dr. Anjay Khandelwal, head of the Adult and Pediatric Burn Institute at Akron Children’s Hospital, immediate treatment for frostbite cases is crucial. Dr. Khandelwal explains, “We are able to provide clot-busting drugs, similar to those used for individuals who have suffered a stroke. However, it is imperative that these medications are administered within about 12 hours of the frostbite injury, after the patient has started to warm up.”
Health professionals are specifically alerting the public about the risks of repeated exposure to the cold. Dr. Khandelwal advises, “If someone shows signs of redness in their fingers, or if they feel numbness and tingling in their fingers or toes and are brought indoors, they should not return outside.” He adds, “Exposure to the cold a second time can be more harmful. The transition from cold to warm back to cold can have serious consequences and result in significant harm.”
Certain groups face higher risks during extreme cold weather, including:
- Elderly individuals and young children, due to their thinner skin
- People with chronic health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes
- Individuals with conditions affecting blood circulation
Healthcare professionals recommend several preventive measures:
- Dress in layers, preferably using synthetic materials that retain body heat and repel moisture
- Pay special attention to protecting hands, feet, fingers, toes, nose, and ears, as these areas are most susceptible to frostbite
- Consider wearing mittens instead of gloves, as they allow fingers to share body heat
- Monitor for warning signs such as skin turning white or red, accompanied by a pins and needles sensation
Seek immediate medical attention if skin remains red for more than 30 minutes, appears blistered, or develops a blue or purple discoloration.
The approaching cold spell represents a significant health risk that requires serious preparation and vigilance. Officials stress that in these extreme conditions, leaving skin uncovered is not an option.
