Frostbite - Diagnosis

A first diagnosis of frostbite or frostnip can usually be made on the basis of environmental conditions. A person found unconscious in freezing weather may be presumed to be at risk for frostbite. Physical examination of the skin often confirms this diagnosis. The skin tends to be cold, hard, white, and numb if frostbite is present. As it warms, the skin becomes red, swollen, and painful. Doctors usually classify the extent of frostbite as being superficial or deep. The prognosis for all forms of frostbite is often not clear for many days.