With extreme cold affecting eastern Iowa and northwestern Illinois, be on the lookout for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
The Illinois Department of Public Health says frostbite most commonly affects exposed skin of the face, ears, hands, and feet. The affected skin will be "whitish and stiff," and feel numb but not painful.
Treatment includes gradual warming, but not rubbing because that can damage skin.
Signs of hypothermia include forgetfulness, drowsiness, slurred speech, a weak pulse, slow heart beat, and slow, shallow breathing. And the department says if you notice someone with these symptoms, take their temperature and if it's 95 degrees or less, get medical help immediately. Don't try to treat it at home.
