What To Do Incase Of Hypothermia

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Signs of Hypothermia

In the winter months, hypothermia can be a very serious health hazard. It is important to know the basics of hypothermia, how to prevent it, and what to do if you or someone you know develops it.

Hypothermia – Is caused by prolonged exposures to very cold temperatures. Lengthy exposures will eventually use up your body’s stored energy. Exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than its produced.

Body temperature that is too low can affect the brain, making it hard to think clearly or move well. This is why hypothermia is so dangerous. The person may not know what is happening to them, and won’t be able to do anything to help themselves.

Who is most at risk?

- Older adults with inadequate food, clothing, or heating

- Babies that sleep in cold rooms

- People who remain outdoors for an extended amount of time such as homeless, hikers, hunters, etc.

- People that drink alcohol, or use illicit drugs

Signs and Symptoms -

Adults:

- Shivering - Exhaustion or feeling very tired - Confusion

- Fumbling hands - Memory loss - Slurred speech

Babies:

- Bright red, cold skin

- Very low energy

When someone shows signs of possible hypothermia, take their temperature. If it is below 95 degrees, it is critical that you take immediate action.

If getting medical help is not possible right away, try warming the person up.

- Get to a warm room or shelter

- Remove wet clothing

- Warm the center of the body (chest, neck, head, and groin)

- Use electric blankets if possible, or skin-to-skin contact under loose blanket, clothes, etc.

- Drink warm liquids, not alcohol. It will help warm the person up, Do not attempt to give an unconscious person liquids

- Most importantly: when possible, get medical attention

A person with severe hypothermia could be unconscious. If that is the case, move the person gently and get them to medical assistance right away.

If the person is not breathing, or does not have a pulse, start CPR immediately. Continue with CPR until medical personnel arrives. Continue warming them up while giving CPR. In some severe cases, the person may still be resuscitated successfully.