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Warning signs for cold-related illnesses

As we deal with this extremely cold weather, health experts say the head, fingers, ears, and toes are the most affected body parts in frigid weather.

If someone is mumbling, stumbling, or fumbling, it’s a sign to get out of the cold and warm up gradually.

Cold-related illnesses like hypothermia and frostbite can cause permanent damage, leading to numbness, tingling, and in severe cases, amputation.

“The biggest areas where we can lose our heat is our head, our hands and our feet. So we’re going to want to try to find a way to keep those areas insulated and covered and just try to get to shelter as soon as possible or get some assistance as soon as possible.”

Ottilia Lewis with Trauma Outreach and Injury Prevention coordinator at Carilion Clinic

Existing conditions like eczema and asthma can worsen due to the dry air, especially in children and older adults.

Warm any affected areas slowly, without massaging or direct exposure to heat. Early medical attention is crucial if cold symptoms persist.


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About the Author
Amanda Stellwag headshot

Amanda Stellwag is a Content Gatherer and joined the WSLS 10 News team in December 2024. She is from New Jersey and graduated from Rutgers University in May 2024.