Hypothermia: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Hypothermia is a condition caused when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat. This is a
potentially dangerous condition. Normal body temperature is 98.6, Hypothermia occurs when the body
temperature drops below 95 degrees. Hypothermia is commonly caused by prolonged exposure to cold
weather conditions or cold water.
What are the causes?
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Not being prepared for changing temperatures
Wearing clothing that is not warm enough for the weather conditions
Prolonged exposure- staying out in the cold too long
Wet clothes
Falling into cold water, as when a boat capsized
Power outage, especially effects older frail people and infants
Certain medical conditions, drug or alcohol use may increase the risk of hypothermia
What are the symptoms?
Shivering is the body’s automatic response to cold temperatures. It is the bodies attempt to warm itself.
Consent shivering is a good sign, if the shivering stops the person’s heat regulator has stopped
functioning and hypothermia has progressed to a dangerous level.
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Shivering
Clumsiness or lack of coordination
Slurred speech or mumbling
Slow, swallow breathing
Confusion and memory loss
Slow weak pulse
Symptoms in infants include: cold to touch, bright red skin, and unusually low energy
What can you do?
If you suspect that someone has hypothermia call 911. Hypothermia causes symptoms that mimic
death; if they are unconscious start CPR, even if you don’t feel a pulse or signs of breathing. Continue
CPR until paramedics arrive.
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Remove any wet garments
If possible move to a warm dry place, if not insulate from the cold ground
Cover with warm blankets
Skin to skin contact – Remove your clothes and lie next to the person. Cover both of you with a
blanket.
Give warm beverages - If alert and able to swallow give warm, nonalcoholic beverages.
Use warm, dry compresses. Warm compresses should only be applied to the neck, chest and
groin. Remember to wrap them in a cloth do not apply directly to the skin. Applying cold to the
legs and arms will force the cold blood to the heart, lungs and brain which could be fatal.
Do not put person in warm water. If warmed to rapidly it may cause heart arrhythmia.
Prevention Tips
Before going out in the cold this winter try remembering this simple acronym COLD – cover,
overexertion, layers, dry
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Cover - To prevent body heat escaping from you head, face and neck. Wear a hat or other
protective covering. Wear mittens instead of gloves, they keep your fingers together which
is more effective warming.
Overexertion – Avoid sweating, wet clothing and cold weather can cause you to lose body
heat.
Layers – Dress in layers, wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing. Water –repellent material is
best for wind protection. Wool and silk inner layers hold body heat better than cotton.
Dry – Keep hands and feet dry, get out of wet clothing as soon as possible.
Additionally limit time children spend outside. Have them come inside to warm themselves periodically.
If you have an elderly neighbor or know an elderly person be sure to check on them to ensure they have
adequate heating. They may not be aware of their condition because symptoms of hypothermia can
begin gradually.
Be aware, be prepared, Enjoy all that winter has to offer!
References: WebMD First Aid
WebMD What is Hypothermia
Mayo Clinic.com Hypothermia