When the body temperature drops below 35 °C, hypothermia sets in. The body normally maintains a core temperature of around 37 °C. Hypothermia can occur even in non-subzero temperatures as long as the environment is colder than the body, causing heat to be released to the surroundings. If the body loses more heat to the environment than it generates, the temperature will decrease.

The body loses heat in four ways:

• Conduction – direct transfer to something cooler.
• Convection – heat loss through airflow on the skin.
• Radiation – heat emission through waves.
• Evaporation – heat loss via skin moisture evaporation.

Medical conditions like a stroke or diabetes can contribute to hypothermia. The body responds to cold with both behavioral and physiological adaptations.

In addition to medical conditions, certain medications can also lower body temperature. Common examples include certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications. It is important for individuals taking these medications to be aware of the potential side effects and to monitor their body temperature regularly.

Symptoms of hypothermia

Hypothermia can present as mild, moderate, or severe, each with distinctive signs and symptoms.

Mild hypothermia (35 to 32 °C) shows signs like pale skin, numbness, slow responses, and shivering. Moderate hypothermia (32 to 28 °C) includes decreased consciousness and slowed heart rate. Severe hypothermia (below 28 °C) leads to unconsciousness and absence of response.

Myth about hypothermia

Contrary to popular belief, the head doesn’t lose more heat than other body parts. It just feels colder because it’s often uncovered. Keeping the head covered, especially for children, helps retain body heat.

In fact, the areas where heat loss is most significant are the extremities such as hands, feet, and ears. These parts have less muscle and fat to generate heat, making them more susceptible to becoming cold. That’s why it’s important to wear gloves, warm socks, and ear protection in cold weather to prevent heat loss and potential hypothermia.

Risk factors for hypothermia

Various factors like age, illness, alcohol, drugs, and immersion increase the risk of hypothermia. Children, the elderly, dementia patients, and those with limited mobility face a higher risk.

Severe hypothermia is life-threatening

While mild hypothermia can be managed easily, severe cases are life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.

If the core body temperature drops below 28 °C, a person may seem dead but could be saved with prompt care.

First aid for severe hypothermia

First aid for severe hypothermia involves calling emergency services and monitoring breathing. CPR might be necessary if the individual shows no signs of life.

Always assume a person is alive and provide immediate care instead of assuming they are dead.

There are different illnesses and conditions that can lead to headaches and fever.

It is important to be prepared for first aid procedures, as they vary depending on the condition.

Cold injuries can be divided into two categories: non-freezing (such as trench foot and chilblains) and freezing of tissues (like frostbite).

Hypothermia is a medical emergency characterized by symptoms such as shivering, confusion, and a decrease in heart rate.