Susceptibility to Frost-Bite

  • Bal Krishna Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Madras
  • R. M. Rai Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Madras
  • B. Bhatia Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Madras
Keywords: Lewis Hunting Reaction, Cold injury, Frost-Bite

Abstract

The body protects its susceptible parts e.g. hands and feet from cold injury by allowing a surge of blood to flow through them on exposure to severe cold. This occurs through alternate vasodilatation and vasoconstriction known as Lewis Hunting Reaction. This phenomenon is influenced by several factors, which indirectly may also affect individual susceptibility to cold injury. The role of nutrition, adequate insulation of the body and positive heat balance in relation to the protective mechanism have been reviewed and discussed. Available literature on various factors has been surveyed and discussed in the light of recent advances in the physiology of cold exposure. Certain tests based on the present knowledge, to be developed and standardised for screening susceptible individuals to frost-bite have been suggested.
Published
2014-05-15
How to Cite
Krishna, B., Rai, R., & Bhatia, B. (2014). Susceptibility to Frost-Bite. Defence Science Journal, 16(4A), 113-124. https://doi.org/10.14429/dsj.16.7220
Section
Research Papers