(HealthDay News) -- Frostbite may set in when fingers, toes or other parts of the body are exposed to very cold temperatures.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says risk factors for frostbite include:
- Failing to wear warm clothing to protect against the cold.
- Being out in extremely cold temperatures for long periods, or getting wet while out in the cold.
- Being elderly or very young.
- Having problems with blood circulation, commonly from diabetes or atherosclerosis.
- Having had a prior cold-related injury.
- Taking certain medications (such as beta blockers), using nicotine products or drinking alcohol.
