"What Should I Do When Frostbite Itches?"

Frostbite often occurs on fingertips, arms, face, auricles, toes, edges of feet, heels, etc., often spreading across both sides. The symptoms manifest as dark purple, raised, edematous erythema with unclear boundaries, red edges, shiny and anxious superficial layers, and soft texture. Frostbite is often accompanied by intense itching. If the itching becomes unbearable, what methods can we use to relieve it? The first method is to boil fresh radish leaves in water, then use the hot water to steam and fumigate the frostbitten area. When the temperature is suitable, soak the frostbitten area in the water for about 20 minutes. Soak it once every night, and generally, frostbite can be alleviated and itching improved in three days. The second method is to soak the frostbitten area in boiling water for a quarter of an hour before going to bed every night, then apply a layer of Vaseline and massage it properly. In this way, the frostbite will not be itchy during sleep, and with continuous use for about 5 days, the frostbite can gradually improve. The third method is to pour white vinegar into a pot and add Chuanxiong, then simmer for 20 minutes over low heat. When the temperature is suitable, soak the frostbitten area repeatedly and reheat it several times. Soak it two or three times a day to effectively relieve frostbite itching. The fourth method is to boil small red peppers in water and use the steam to warm the frostbitten area when the temperature is high. When the temperature reaches around 40 degrees, soak the frostbitten area. You can also soak a cotton towel in the pepper water and apply heat to the frostbite. After the peppers cool down, you can tear them off from the water and apply them to the frostbitten area. When frostbite itches, avoid scratching or pressing it, as this may cause swelling, inflammation, or worsen the frostbite. Try not to touch cold water or expose the frostbitten area to direct heat from a fire. The methods introduced above for alleviating itching during sleep are actually not difficult to follow. In addition, when frostbite itches, try not to scratch, press, or touch cold water, and avoid using fire. By doing a good job in related nursing work, the healing of frostbite can be accelerated.