Indoor and Outdoor Locations Equally Susceptible to Hypothermia
Hypothermia, a dangerous drop in core body temperature, can occur even in room temperature under certain conditions. This condition affects thousands of people each year in the United States, many of whom could have been saved if they had been better informed about the risks and symptoms.
In adults, symptoms of hypothermia include fumbling hands, shivering, confusion, slurred speech, memory loss, drowsiness, exhaustion, and low energy. In infants and children, cold, bright red skin and low energy can be indicators of hypothermia.
People at greater risk of hypothermia include older adults, young children, those who remain outdoors for long periods, participate in outdoor work or sports, are mentally ill, or are dependent on drugs and alcohol. Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, low blood sugar, high blood pressure, and dehydration, can also increase the risk.
If you suspect hypothermia, it is crucial to act quickly. Dr. Waters advises getting out of the cold as soon as possible and beginning rewarming the body by wrapping it in warm blankets. Remove any wet clothing and be gentle, as the person may be in shock.
Beyond cold temperatures, additional risk factors for hypothermia include wet and windy conditions, age, physical condition, inactivity, medical interventions, and environmental factors during surgery. Wetness, wind, age, physical condition, inactivity, medical interventions, and environmental factors during surgery are important additional contributors to hypothermia risk.
Preparation is key to avoiding hypothermia. Dr. Waters suggests dressing warmly in dry, warm clothing, including a hat, during exercise, dressing in loose layers, staying as dry as possible, and considering taking along a survival kit that includes blankets, water, some emergency food, and a heavy coat.
Remember, hypothermia is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated quickly. Recognising the risks and symptoms and taking prompt action can save lives. Stay warm and stay safe!
[1] Polak JM, et al. (2014). Cold water diving and hypothermia. British Journal of Anaesthesia. [2] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Hypothermia. [3] American Society of Anesthesiologists. (2019). Perioperative Hypothermia. [4] World Health Organization. (2019). Cold-related injuries. [5] American Family Physician. (2014). Preventing and Managing Intraoperative Hypothermia.
- Participating in cold-water sports, such as diving or winter swimming, can potentially trigger hypothermia if proper precautions are not taken.
- Maintaining a balanced diet and good health-and-wellness practices can help strengthen the body's ability to withstand varying weather conditions, potentially reducing the risk of hypothermia.
- Mental-health issues and therapies-and-treatments for such conditions may affect a person's ability to recognize and respond to symptoms of hypothermia, increasing the risk of this dangerous condition.
- The impact of hypothermia on mental health should not be underestimated, as it can lead to confusion, slurred speech, and memory loss, which can further complicate treatment and recovery.
