Dangerous cold temperatures bring health concerns of frost bite, hypothermia

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The arctic cold weather expected through the weekend is dangerous for anyone to be in for extended periods of time.

Doctors warn people who spend too much time in the extremely cold temperatures with wind chills can develop conditions including frost bite and hypothermia. 

"You can get in trouble really quickly," UW Health Chief Quality Officer Dr. Jeff Pothof said. "Especially in situations where folks find themselves out in the environment but weren't planning on it. You know, broken down cars, things like that."

Frost bite symptoms start as a tingly, numb-like sensation. Then, people may experience a loss of feeling, discoloration and blisters, which lead to tissue damage.

"You got to be really careful about using hot sources to warm up. You're better off using warm water, heated blankets, hand warmers, things like that provide warmth but not extreme warmth," Pothof said.

Hypothermia can come on suddenly. Symptoms include shivering and unusual behavior. 

"At some point, they'll stop shivering. That's a very dangerous sign. Those folks need medical attention. If not attended to and they get colder and colder, and it starts to shut down the body," Pothof said.

Dr. Pothof said it would be hard to survive an extended period of time outside, even when doing everything possible to stay warm.

"There's still pretty significant risk there on whether or not you're going to be able to keep that core temperature," Pothof said.

People spending time outside should layer clothing and take frequent breaks in a warm place.