Hypothermia is a serious medical condition that can result in brain damage and heart failure.
When the body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), it is considered dangerously low, leading to hypothermia. This occurs when the body loses heat at a faster rate than it can produce.
What is the typical normal body temperature?
- The average normal body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C).
- Normal body temperature can vary between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C) in different individuals.
- A body temperature of 96.6°F (35.9°C) is considered low. However, adults with this temperature and no symptoms generally do not need to seek medical attention. Elderly individuals and infants should be evaluated.
What causes low body temperature?
Low body temperature (hypothermia) occurs when the body loses more heat than it can generate, often due to exposure to cold conditions or water.
Factors that can cause hypothermia include:
- Not dressing appropriately in cold weather
- Being exposed to cold conditions without protection
- Living in a cold environment
- Accidentally falling into cold water
What are the first signs and symptoms of low body temperature (hypothermia)?
Fourteen common signs and symptoms of hypothermia include:
- Shivering
- Slurred speech
- Numb and cold extremities
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Weak pulse
- Loss of coordination
- Lack of concern (apathy)
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Stiff muscles
- Very cold skin
What things put you at a risk of low body temperature?
Not everyone who is exposed to cold temperatures develops hypothermia. Age and individual tolerance levels play a role in how the body responds to cold.
Factors that increase the risk of hypothermia include:
- Fatigue decreasing the body’s tolerance to cold
- Elderly individuals and infants losing heat more rapidly
- Alcohol and drugs increasing heat loss and affecting judgment
- Medical conditions like underactive thyroid, anorexia nervosa, Parkinson’s disease, or spinal trauma
- Certain medications such as specific antidepressants and narcotic pain relievers
SLIDESHOW
What should I do if my body temperature is too low (hypothermia)?
If you encounter someone with hypothermia, follow these first aid guidelines:
- Avoid massaging their body
- Move them to a warm area
- Remove wet clothes and cover them with blankets
- Place them on a warm surface
- Offer warm liquids
- Use warm compresses on specific areas
- Avoid applying direct heat
- Administer CPR if necessary
How can you prevent hypothermia?
Prior to going out in the cold, remember the COLD acronym (cover, overexertion, layers, dry) to prevent hypothermia.
- Dress warmly and protect exposed skin
- Avoid sweating in cold weather
- Wear layered clothing, including wool or silk
- Stay dry and safeguard hands and feet from snow
Health News
What body temperature is considered a fever?
A fever occurs when the body temperature exceeds normal levels. The average normal body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C).
- In adults, a fever is considered above 100.4°F
- In children, fever levels can vary depending on the method of measurement
A fever indicates an immune system response to infections and may not always require treatment.
When should one visit a doctor for the treatment of a fever?
A fever between 100.4°F and 102°F is classified as low-grade and might not necessitate treatment. Seek medical attention for infants with a fever or severe symptoms.
Consult a healthcare provider if the fever is accompanied by specific symptoms or lasts longer than expected. Seek immediate medical assistance for fevers above 105°F.
What causes a fever?
Fever is a sign of the body’s immune system battling an infection. Common causes include illnesses and infections such as the flu, colds, or bacterial infections.
What is the best way to measure a fever?
Use a thermometer to accurately measure body temperature orally, rectally, or under the arm. Ear thermometers are also available for use.
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References related to body temperature norms, hypothermia, and prevention can be found in the provided links.
Top What Body Temperature Is Too Low? Hypothermia Related Articles
A significant fever begins above 100.4°F (37°C). Not all cases of the flu present with a fever.
Headache and fever are common symptoms in various diseases. It is crucial to have basic first aid knowledge and be prepared.
Cold weather injuries can be non-freezing (trench foot, chilblains) or freezing (frostbite).
- Dress warmly and in layers.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to cold temperatures.
- Stay dry and change out of wet clothes quickly.
- Avoid alcohol consumption in cold weather.
- Be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypothermia.
- Seek medical attention if hypothermia is suspected.
- Keep emergency numbers accessible.
- Avoid spending extended periods outdoors in the cold, especially if you work or spend a lot of time outside.
- Dress warmly with appropriate clothing like a wind or water-resistant jacket, gloves, and a hat.
- Stay dry and change out of wet clothes promptly to prevent hypothermia.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and cigarettes as they can increase sensitivity to cold.
- Consult your doctor to determine if any medications you are taking could make you more susceptible to cold.
To protect young children and infants from the cold, limit their exposure to extreme weather and ensure their heads are covered when outdoors.
Resources and support
- Visit the NSW Government page for valuable information on how to prevent hypothermia if you fall into cold water.
- Enroll in a St John Ambulance Australia first aid course to learn effective hypothermia treatment methods and potentially save a life.
- Know the signs of hypothermia, including shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness.
- Always dress warmly and in layers when venturing out in cold weather to prevent hypothermia.
Source:
Last reviewed: July 2024
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For more information, visit the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website.
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