Exposure to extreme cold can result in hypothermia, which occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Most people have a core body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, but mild hypothermia can decrease body temperature to a range of 32 to 35 degrees Celsius.
Hypothermia is considered severe when body temperature falls below 28 degrees Celsius. At this point, emergency medical care is a must to prevent serious effects, including death, from occurring.
While all people can experience hypothermia in cold conditions, some have a higher risk than others. Pertinent risk factors include:
People affected by the above risk factors should take special precautions to protect themselves against hypothermia when experiencing cold conditions.
Shivering is a way for the body to warm itself when experiencing cold temperatures. As a result, it’s often the first indication of hypothermia. Other symptoms include:
When combined with cold temperatures, these symptoms require urgent assistance.
Timely medical care is crucial to prevent severe effects of hypothermia. Without immediate treatment, severe hypothermia can cause your heart and respiratory system to fail, both of which can be life-threatening.
Additionally, hypothermia is associated with serious complications. Frostbite is when bodily tissues become frozen. Frostbite can cause these tissues to decay and die off, which results from gangrene. Gangrene occurs when parts of the body do not receive the proper flow of blood.
It’s often necessary to administer first-aid while awaiting medical assistance. In this case, do your best to protect the person from cold conditions. If possible, move them inside or to a suitable shelter that protects against wind and moisture. Remove wet or damp clothing and replace it with dry clothing, blankets, coats, and other items that can provide warmth.
Upon receiving medical treatment, a person with severe hypothermia may receive one or more of the following:
Do not delay if you believe you or another person is at risk of developing hypothermia. The sooner you get help, the less likely you are to experience serious complications and severe effects.