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Hypothermia, i.e. cooling of the body, is a serious condition that can lead to serious consequences and even death. In this article you will learn what hypothermia is, what causes it, what are its types and symptoms, how to treat it and how to provide first aid to a hypothermic person. You will also learn how to prevent hypothermia to avoid its negative effects.
Hypothermia – what is it? what causes it?
Hypothermia is a condition in which the body temperature drops below normal, i.e. 36 degrees Celsius. This is the result of the body losing heat faster than it can produce it. Hypothermia can be caused by exposure to extreme weather conditions, prolonged exposure to cold water, clothing inappropriate for the weather conditions, or excessive use of alcohol or drugs, which reduce the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
What might its effects be?
Hypothermia can lead to various effects that depend on the degree of cooling of the body. In mild cases, this may include an initial feeling of cold, body tremors and slow reactions. However, in more severe forms of hypothermia, serious complications can occur, such as loss of consciousness, cardiac arrhythmia, pulmonary edema, and even death.
Types and symptoms of hypothermia
Depending on the degree of cooling of the body, there are several types of hypothermia. Here are the most important ones:
Mild hypothermia
In this form of hypothermia, the symptoms are relatively mild. The person may feel cold, shiver, and have difficulty speaking and moving. The skin may be pale and cold, and the pulse and breathing may be rapid.
Moderate hypothermia
In the case of moderate hypothermia, the symptoms are more severe. Apathy, drowsiness, disorientation and even loss of consciousness appear. The skin becomes pale and cold, and the pulse and breathing slow down.
Severe hypothermia
This form of hypothermia has serious symptoms such as loss of consciousness, lack of response to stimuli, and very slow pulse and breathing. In the case of severe hypothermia, the person’s life is at risk, so immediate medical attention is necessary.
How is it treated?
Treatment for hypothermia depends on its severity. In cases of mild hypothermia, you can try to warm the person by providing them with warm clothes, warm drinks and a dry blanket. In moderate and severe hypothermia, immediate medical intervention is necessary. The person should be taken to hospital where they will receive specialized treatment, including body warming.
First aid for hypothermia
If you encounter a hypothermic person, it is important to act quickly and effectively. Here are the steps to take in hypothermia first aid:
Call for medical help
Call the emergency number or call an ambulance immediately if you suspect the person is in a serious condition. Immediate medical help can save a life.
Protect the person from further hypothermia
Move the person to a warm and dry place, protect him or her from wind and rain. Provide her with warm clothes and a blanket.
Heat gradually
Don’t try to warm the person up too quickly, for example by placing them in hot water. This may cause thermal shock. Rewarm gradually using warm blankets and warm drinks.
Monitor breathing and pulse
Constantly check the person’s breathing and pulse. If they stop working, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Don’t serve alcohol
Avoid giving alcohol to a person who is hypothermic as it may worsen the situation.
How to prevent hypothermia?
The best way to avoid hypothermia is to ensure proper protection against the cold. Here are some tips to prevent hypothermia:
Dress appropriately
Wearing warm, layered clothes and a hat is key to protecting yourself from hypothermia.
Avoid prolonged exposure to cold
If you must be outside on frosty days, try to limit the time you spend in the cold and regularly warm up in a warm room.
Avoid alcohol and drugs
Alcohol and drugs reduce the body’s ability to regulate temperature, so avoid them in extreme weather conditions.
Your suggestions
Remember that hypothermia is a condition that can be very dangerous to health and life. It is worth being prepared for extreme weather conditions and knowing the rules of first aid in the event of hypothermia. Thanks to this, you will be able to help yourself or others in a dangerous situation.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in hypothermia and first aid, we recommend reading articles on protecting yourself from hypothermia and providing help in other emergency situations. Knowledge about this topic can be extremely useful in everyday life.