16/12/2025
Cold weather can sneak up on you, especially when temperatures drop suddenly, and that is when health risks like frostbite and hypothermia rise quickly. It helps to know what to watch for.
Frostbite often starts with numbness or a tingling feeling in fingers, toes, ears, or the nose. Skin may look pale, white, or gray, and can feel firm or unusually cold. As it gets worse, the area can burn or sting as sensation returns.
Hypothermia happens when the body temperature drops too low. Early warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, feeling very tired, clumsiness, slurred speech, or trouble thinking clearly. These signs can progress even when it does not feel extremely cold.
Dress in layers, keep exposed skin covered, and limit time outside when temperatures drop quickly. If you notice symptoms, get to a warm place, warm the affected areas slowly, and give your body time to recover.