Which condition is caused by prolonged exposure to cold, damp environments and can lead to tissue damage without freezing?

• A. Immersion foot
• B. Trench foot
• C. Frostbite
• D. Frostnip

Answer: (A)

Prolonged exposure to cold, damp environments damages tissue without freezing. Immersion foot occurs when feet (or hands) stay wet and cold for an extended period. The body responds with sustained vasoconstriction, cutting down blood flow, which leads to numbness, pale or mottled skin, swelling, and can progress to tissue breakdown if exposure continues. This is different from frostbite or frostnip, where the tissue actually freezes. The term trench foot is a historic name for this same nonfreezing moisture-related injury, but the current term most often used is immersion foot. Treatment centers on removing the person from the wet cold, drying and warming gradually, elevating the limb, protecting the area to prevent infection, and seeking medical care if blistering or ulcers appear.