LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- It only takes around 20 to 30 minutes to develop frostbite, according to doctors at UofL Hospital.
With temperatures expected to range from single digits to the teens from Monday through Wednesday and wind chills below zero, doctors in Louisville are warning people to be aware of the signs of frostbite.
There are three levels of frostbites. The first is frostnip where the tips of fingers or nose get red and may be painful or swell.
The second level is frostbite where fingers turn white and feeling decreases.
The third level is severe frostbite where fingers and toes may turn black, which causes nerve or tissue damage.
"The first thing you have to do is know yourself," Dr. Matt Bozeman with UofL Hospital. "If you're a patient that has medical conditions like I mentioned earlier like diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, things like that where you may not feel your hands and fingers getting cold, so a good thing is to either have a timer in your head or on your phone where you're going to check yourself."
If someone is experiencing frostbite, they should see a doctor. Frostnip can be treated at home with a warm water bath set around 98 to 100 degrees.
"Bundle up, wear layers, check yourself frequently," Bozeman said. "If you do get wet and cold make sure you go inside and take a break."
Mayo Clinic said exposed skin in cold, windy weather is most vulnerable to frostbite, but it can affect skin covered by gloves or other clothing.
Related stories:
- Gov. Andy Beshear declares state of emergency amid severe winter weather
- Pop-up shelters around South Louisville helping people survive severe winter weather
- Louisville officials urge caution as high winds, extremely cold temperatures head toward the area
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