What is hypothermia?
Hypothermia is a condition in which a
person's body temperature has dropped significantly below normal. This occurs
from inadequate protection against exposure to cold temperatures. The very
young and elderly are the most susceptible to developing hypothermia when
exposed to cold temperatures.
The risk and extent of hypothermia is directly influenced by presence of wet
clothing, contact with metals, wind-chill, and extent of temperature gradient
between the body and its surroundings. Vulnerability is increased when
circulation is impaired by cardiovascular disease, alcohol intake, exhaustion,
and/or hunger.
What are the symptoms of hypothermia?
·
Uncontrolled
shivering
·
Slow or
unclear speech
·
Feeling
extremely tired
·
Stumbling
when attempting to walk
·
Confusion
(person cannot think clearly)
·
Semi-consciousness
or unconsciousness
What should I do if someone has
hypothermia?
·
If a person
becomes unconscious, get medical help immediately. If cardiac arrest (heart
attack) has occurred, have someone call for medical assistance and then apply
CPR.
·
WARNING: Do
not warm the person too fast.
·
Bring the
person indoors or to a dry place protected from the wind.
·
Remove wet
clothing and cover the person with dry blankets. Make sure to cover the head,
hands, and feet.
·
Put the
person in a cot or bed next to a warm -- not hot -- heater.
·
Lie under
the covers next to the person to transfer your own body heat. If possible, have
someone else lie on the other side.
·
Give the
person warm -- not hot -- broth or soup. Do not give alcohol to drink.
·
Wrap an
infant inside your own clothing against your skin.
How can I prevent hypothermia?
·
Wear warm,
multi-layered clothing with good hand and feet protection (avoid overly
constricting wrist bands, socks, and shoes).
·
Wear warm
headgear. This is particularly important since significant heat is lost through
an unprotected head.
·
If
possible, change into dry clothes whenever clothing becomes wet.
·
Find
appropriate shelter to stay warm.