Every winter, skiing is a popular activity among sports enthusiasts.

While enjoying the thrill of winter sports, skiers need to pay attention to protecting their skin from frostbite in the cold environment. Here is an emergency manual for frostbite:

Frostbite is a localized or systemic bodily injury caused by prolonged exposure to cold and damp conditions. Experts explain that in extremely low temperatures and long exposure, blood vessels undergo sustained spasmodic contraction, reducing blood flow. Areas with poor blood circulation, especially in the extremities, may enter a "damaged" state, resulting in frostbite.

Based on symptoms, frostbite is primarily divided into non-freezing frostbite (such as common chilblains) and freezing frostbite (including localized freezing frostbite and systemic freezing frostbite), with localized freezing frostbite further categorized into four degrees of severity, and systemic freezing frostbite into frostbite and frostbite death.

Signs that may indicate frostbite include the appearance of white or gray-yellow skin, abnormal hardness or wax-like texture of the skin, and numbness.

Experts emphasize the need for extra protection for exposed skin in cold weather. Common chilblains often occur in areas with poor blood circulation, such as fingers, back of the hands, toes, heels, and earlobes.

So, how can you prevent frostbite while skiing in winter?

Warm-up activities before exercise are crucial in winter sports. Physiologically, warm-up exercises increase muscle contraction strength, improve muscle coordination, prevent or reduce injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, enhance the ability to bind and release oxygen from hemoglobin and muscle proteins, improve metabolic processes, and reduce vascular wall resistance.

Adequate elevation of body temperature enhances the sensitivity of nerve receptors and improves nerve conduction speed.

Warm-up exercises also stimulate vasodilation, increasing local blood flow to the active areas. The speed and volume of blood flow increase with muscle temperature.

This improvement facilitates the supply of energy and the removal of metabolic by-products. The effects of warm-up exercises lead to an increased range of motion in joints, improved coordination during movement, and optimal muscle stretching capabilities, minimizing the risk of injuries during winter sports.

Frostbite prevention involves the following:

1. Warm and Loose Clothing:

Sports clothing and footwear should be warm and loose-fitting. Ski boots should not be too tight.

2. Cold-Weather Gear:

Use cold-weather gear during winter exercise and securely fasten gloves, clothing, pant cuffs, and sleeves to prevent wind and snow from entering. Wear goggles while skiing to prevent corneal frostbite.

3. Keep Feet Dry:

Ensure shoes and socks remain dry. Change them promptly if they become wet due to excessive activity or walking.

4. Stay Warm During Inactivity:

Stay warm when the body is still or tired. Avoid standing in windy areas, sitting, or lying on snowy ground when tired or hungry. Promptly wear warm clothes after breaks or completing activities to prevent frostbite and colds.

5. Balanced Diet:

Include foods rich in protein and fats in the diet.

A skiing instructor explains that many beginners underestimate the complexity of skiing, leading to inadequate preparation and sports injuries. Therefore, consulting with an instructor before practicing is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.