Ice packs and ice cubes can cause more blood flow, minimize swelling, numb pain, loosen tissues, and are great for acute injuries but did you know they can also cause frostbite or ice burns if not used properly? In fact, skin damage can occur in as little as 10 minutes of direct contact with ice. Here's how to use ice packs safely and what you can do to prevent ice burns.
How Do Ice Packs Cause Burns?
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Essentially, when you apply an ice pack directly to your skin, the low temperature constricts blood vessels and slows down blood flow to the area, which is great for reducing swelling and an acute injury, but not so great if it's left for too long. Similar to heating pads, when left on for too long, it lowers the temperature of your skin and underlying tissues too quickly which causes damage to them. That's when burns occur.
Who Is More at a Risk?
You might be surprised to learn that children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to ice burns because they have more sensitive and thinner skin. People with certain medical conditions, like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid issues, diabetes, or poor circulation, are also at risk.
Other risk factors include:
- Previous injuries or surgeries at the site
- Use of over-the-counter drugs and certain medications.
- A history of smoking
How to Avoid Ice Burns?
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Before applying it to your skin, wrap the ice pack in a plastic bag along with a thin cloth or towel. Next, limit the time you keep the ice pack on. Use the pack for only 15-20 minutes at a time, and then give your skin a break for at least an hour before reapplying. If your skin starts to look white or feels numb after extended periods, remove the ice immediately as it can cause tissue damage.
What Does Frost Bite or Ice Burn Look Like?
The affected area might first feel very cold and then numb, and the skin might turn red, pale, or even bluish-white. You might also notice that the skin becomes hard or waxy to the touch. As the ice burn progresses, you can see blisters forming, similar to a heat burn. These symptoms can occur within minutes.
How to Treat Frost Bite Caused by Ice Packs?
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If you suspect frostbite from using an ice pack, gently warm the affected area using lukewarm water (around 99 to 104°F or 37 to 40°C) or a warm heating pad for about 15 to 30 minutes. Under no condition should you use hot water, as it can further burn your skin. Don't rub the area as well.
As the skin warms, you might feel some tingling or stinging sensations, which is normal. If blisters form, don’t pop them, as this can lead to infection. Cover them with a clean, dry bandage instead. Keep the affected area elevated to reduce swelling. Once you've done this, seek medical attention right away. In the meantime, continue doing what you're doing. If the burn is mild, it will take a few days to heal. If it's more severe, it will take a couple of months for your skin to recover.
When Shouldn't You Use Ice Packs?
Avoid using ice packs if you have the following issues, as they can worsen the condition:
- You have circulation problems, like Raynaud's disease.
- You have open wounds or blisters around the problem area.
- You have nerve damage or numbness in the affected area.
Summary
Ice packs can be a great way to reduce swelling and ease pain, but it's important to use them safely. Always remember to wrap the ice pack in a cloth, limit your use to 15-20 minutes, and be aware of any medical conditions that might increase your risk of ice burns.
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