Hypothermia is a condition that develops once the body temperature falls below 95-degrees F. Certain complications can occur from this drop in the body temperature including death.
It is important to note that hypothermia is relatively dangerous since it affects the ability of an individual to think clearly. This can reduce the likelihood of seeking medical attention.
What are the indications of hypothermia?
The usual indications of hypothermia include the following:
- Slowed breathing
- Excessive breathing
- Clumsiness
- Slowed speech
- Confusion
It is important to note that hypothermia is relatively dangerous since it affects the ability of an individual to think clearly. - Stumbling
An individual who experiences excessive fatigue, weak pulse rate or loses consciousness might be at risk for developing hypothermia.
What are the causes?
Being exposed to cold weather is the main cause of hypothermia. Once the body is subjected to extremely cold temperatures, it loses heat more rapidly than it can generate. Being immersed or submerged in cold water for extended periods of time can also trigger these effects.
The inability to generate sufficient body heat is dangerous. The body temperature can rapidly and significantly drop. Exposure to cold temperatures can also lead to hypothermia.
Risk factors for hypothermia
Age – this is a risk factor for the condition where infants and the elderly face the highest risk. This is due to the diminished capability to properly control the body temperature. Those who are included in this age group should properly dressed for the cold weather.
Alcohol and drug use – Using drugs or alcohol can impair judgment about the cold. One is likely to lose consciousness that can occur outdoors in cold weather. Alcohol is quite dangerous since it provides a false impression of warming within the body. Actually, it causes the blood vessels to expand and the skin has a tendency to lose more heat.
Mental illnesses and dementia – mental disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia can put an individual at risk for hypothermia. Memory loss or dementia that often occurs with comprehension and communication issues increases the risk as well. Those who have impaired mental judgement might not dress properly for the cold weather.
Medications – some sedatives, antidepressants and antipsychotics can affect the ability of the body to control the temperature.
Other health conditions
There are also certain health conditions that can affect the ability of the body to maintain proper temperature or to feel cold such as the following:
- Dehydration
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s disease
Preventive measures
There are various ways in which hypothermia can be prevented.
Clothing
An easy way to prevent hypothermia is the clothing being used. It is recommended to dress in layers during cold days even if the individual does not feel very cold outside. Make sure that all body parts are covered and use gloves, hats and scarves during the winter season.
Staying dry
Remember that staying dry is vital. Avoid swimming for extended periods of time and ensure that water-repellant clothing is worn in rain and snow. Keep the body at a normal temperature to prevent hypothermia. If the temperature drops below 95 degrees F, it is vital to seek medical care even if the symptoms are not present.