How to stop the itching from frostbite?

Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

Updated on September 21, 2024

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After suffering from frostbite, itching occurs mainly due to the stimulation of peripheral nerves causing an itchy sensation. Therefore, to relieve itching, one can apply some anti-itch creams such as frostbite cream. Saline, ginger, and soap can also be used to alleviate itching by promoting local skin blood circulation and constricting local blood vessels, thus having an anti-itch effect. After frostbite itches, one must not scratch, press, or touch cold water.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng

Dermatology

37sec

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Why does frostbite occur year after year?

Cold is the primary cause of chilblains, but in addition, factors such as the patient's own skin moisture, abnormalities in peripheral microvessels, autonomic nerve dysfunction, malnutrition, anemia, endocrine disorders, etc., may also participate in the development of the disease. Other factors such as lack of exercise, hyperhidrosis of the hands and feet, overly tight socks and shoes, and long-term outdoor work may also contribute to the occurrence of chilblains. Therefore, chilblains are actually a multifactorial disease, making it prone to recurrence.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng

Dermatology

27sec

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Can frostbite be treated with a hot towel compress?

Chilblains are caused by the cold, leading to spasms and contractions in the small blood vessels at the distal and peripheral ends of the human body, causing venous congestion and poor local blood circulation. At this time, using a hot towel for local hot compresses, or using heating pads for local heat application, can dilate local blood vessels, improve microcirculation, and increase blood flow, which helps in treating chilblains.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun

Traditional Chinese Medicine

42sec

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Does soaking feet in ginger treat frostbite?

Soaking your feet in ginger water can effectively help improve chilblains and also achieve therapeutic effects, so it can be done daily. It is still necessary to keep warm and avoid getting cold, because if the condition is too severe, simply soaking your feet can be relatively slow. Foot soaking can only play a temporary role, so more attention is needed usually. You can soak your feet daily, maintaining the water temperature around 40°C. Moreover, the soaking time should generally be controlled between 15 to 30 minutes to effectively help improve the condition. If the chilblains are severe, some medications can be applied for treatment. (The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

35sec

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How to prevent frostbite

Frostbite is a skin disease caused by local skin inflammation due to cold weather. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent frostbite by avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, low-temperature environments. If it is necessary to be in such environments, it is essential to keep both the local areas and the entire body warm. You can wear hats, earmuffs, and gloves, and put on thicker shoes and socks. However, shoes, socks, and gloves should not be too tight, as overly tight clothing can also lead to frostbite.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng

Dermatology

37sec

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How to treat frostbite in summer?

Chilblains usually occur in early winter and early spring. Therefore, treating chilblains in summer is mainly to prevent recurrence in winter. The routine mainly involves physical exercise. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine treatment, there is a concept of treating winter diseases in summer. You can use some Chinese herbal medicines that warm and promote circulation, activate blood circulation and remove blood stasis, and unblock collaterals to relieve pain. These herbs can be decocted and used for foot soaks over a period, which helps to prevent the occurrence of chilblains in winter.