As winter continues its icy grip, we want to offer tips for preventing frostbite.
Frostbite occurs when the skin and tissue beneath it freeze. Typically, this affects exposed areas including fingers, nose, and ears.  Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Typically a bout of mild frostbite is easily treated by re-heating the skin with use of warm water. Severe frostbite, however, requires medical attention.  In order to prevent frostbite, follow these tips:

• Reduce the amount of time spent outside.
• If you need to spend a long time outside, try to take breaks in a warm area.
• Always dress in warm layers. Make sure to cover your ears with a hat or earmuffs.
• Mittens have been known to provide better protection than gloves.
• Make sure to wear dry clothes. If your clothes get wet, change them immediately.
• Watch for early signs of frostbite. Mild frostbite is easier to reverse than severe frostbite.

If you have signs of frostbite, visit AFC Urgent Care Urgent Care in South Plainfield.  Appointments are not required, wait times are short, and we are open extended hours. Visit us at 907 Oak Tree Avenue, Oak Park Commons (near the Super A&P) in South Plainfield or call us at 908-222-3500.