New Hampshire American College of Surgeons FIRST LIFE...... THEN LIMB Frost Bite occurs when tissues freeze at or below -6 degrees Centigrade. The inter cellular fluid and then the intra cellular fluid freezes. As the fluid thaws , it sets up a cascade of inflammatory response, which can be mitigated by the anti thromboxane alpha effect of aloe vera, and NSAIDS. 1) Do not allow thawing until it will be permanent; re freezing will increase the final tissue loss 2) Treat the person for hypothermia if present 3) If the person can swallow and follow instructions give them Aspirin 325 mg or Ibuprofen 200-400 mg. with a warm drink. Hydration is essential. 4) Remove wet clothes and prevent any pressure or friction on the frostbitten area. Haemorrhage into damaged tissue will potentially worsen the injury. 5) Rapid rewarming of the whole person and then the extremities at 40 degrees Centigrade is essential 6) Get the person to a hospital ASAP