Metro Detroit hospitals see rise in frostbite, hypothermia, burns from fires

DETROIT – The extreme cold weather in Metro Detroit has led to increased health issues.

Related: How to protect cars amid dangerously cold temperatures in Metro Detroit

Henry Ford and Corewell health systems both reported that they’re seeing slip and falls, frostbite, and hypothermia cases.

The Detroit Medical Center has reported the same, but also burn injuries from fires used for warmth.

Breathing difficulties are on the rise across Detroit, particularly affecting those with heart conditions and respiratory issues like asthma and COPD.

While staying indoors is recommended for heart-related issues, using a rescue inhaler and wearing a mask or scarf can help prevent breathing problems for others when venturing outside.

With any change in temperature, the effects are cumulative — meaning the longer the extremes hang around the more effect they have. The most vulnerable will be impacted first but eventually, it catches up with the slightly vulnerable.

The good news

The one silver lining for the average person who is not at any extreme risk is these shockingly cold days speed up the rate at which we acclimatize to the temperatures — meaning our bodies and behaviors adjust. When temperatures go up to the 30s, it won’t seem as cold as it may have in past months.

List: Where to stay warm as sub-zero wind chills, temperatures hit Metro Detroit