Nizhny Novgorod residents were told how to avoid frostbite during the winter.

      December 24, 2025, 11:28 — Society

      Residents of the Nizhny Novgorod region were reminded of the danger of frostbite during the winter cold. Medical professionals explained how the condition develops and what measures can help avoid serious consequences.

      As explained by the chief freelance specialist of the regional Ministry of Health for medical prevention, Natalya Savitskaya, frostbite occurs with prolonged exposure of the body's tissues to low temperatures. The most vulnerable areas are the nose, cheeks, ears, hands and feet.

      According to the doctor, the severity of frostbite depends on a number of factors: air temperature, wind strength, humidity, length of time spent in the cold, as well as individual characteristics of the body.

      "Frostbite can cause serious complications. In mild cases there is redness, tingling and numbness of the skin. After warming, peeling and itching may occur. With deeper injuries blisters appear, sensitivity decreases, and scars may remain. In the most severe cases tissue death occurs, requiring surgical intervention, up to and including amputation," Savitskaya specified.

      In addition to weather conditions, doctors list prolonged exposure to the cold, inappropriate clothing and footwear as risk factors. Alcohol and smoking also increase the likelihood of frostbite.

      The chief physician of the Nizhny Novgorod Emergency Medical Service, Roman Pegov, noted that the number of frostbite cases traditionally increases during the New Year holidays.

      "You must not consume alcohol in the cold — it increases heat loss while creating a false sensation of warmth. Smoking reduces circulation in the extremities, making them especially vulnerable to the cold," Pegov emphasized.

      He also added that hypothermia more often occurs in tired and hungry people. Therefore, before a long walk it is important to eat and rest well.

      At the first signs of frostbite you must not remove footwear outdoors — the extremities may swell. If your hands are frozen, you can warm them in your armpits. Damaged areas should be wrapped with woolen fabric, then with foil or cling film. To relieve pain you can take a painkiller.

      Natalya Savitskaya added that chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases also increase the risk of frostbite. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the cold due to differences in thermoregulation.

      To avoid hypothermia during the New Year holidays, doctors advise dressing properly. It is best to use layered clothing: the first layer — thermal underwear that wicks moisture away; the second — fleece or wool for insulation; the third — a waterproof and windproof fabric. Footwear should be warm, with a thick sole and roomy enough for warm socks. It is also necessary to wear a hat, scarf and gloves or mittens.

      Earlier, doctors warned Nizhny Novgorod residents about the dangerous "holiday heart" syndrome. A doctor also explained how to avoid sugar spikes during the New Year holidays.

      NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay informed of the main events, exclusive materials and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required. This resource may contain materials 18+.