What is hypothermia?
Hypothermia can set in even when the air temperature is above freezing if someone is outside for a long period of time and not dressed for the weather. It can also occur if someone is cold from rain, sweat or being submerged in water.
With winter upon us and temperatures dropping, dangerous and potentially deadly health conditions like hypothermia and frostbite are a concern if you’re subjected to cold air or water for long periods of time.
Hypothermia can set in even when the air temperature is above freezing if someone is outside for a long period of time and not dressed for the weather. It can also occur if someone is cold from rain, sweat or being submerged in water.
Dangerous cold: Watching out for frostbite and hypothermia
Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Fox News Medical Contributor, talks about the cold weather health risks of frostbite and hypothermia.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says hypothermia begins to set in when your body is losing heat faster than it produces it and can be especially dangerous because someone may not even know that they’re suffering from the potentially deadly condition.
Here’s a closer look at what hypothermia is, the symptoms of hypothermia and how you can prevent hypothermia.
CAN COLD WEATHER MAKE YOU SICK?
How do you get hypothermia?
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Hypothermia often occurs at cold temperatures, but you can still be susceptible at temperatures as warm as 60 degrees, particularly in water or if you're outside for an extended period of time and not dressed appropriately for the conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
Most people who die of hypothermia every year are seniors, according to the National Institute of Aging, although children and young people are also affected. So, everyone needs to be careful about getting hypothermia.
WHAT DOES THE WIND CHILL MEAN?
What are the symptoms of hypothermia?
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If your temperature drops, you could feel sluggish or unable to think clearly.
Fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and exhaustion are also symptoms of hypothermia. Infants will also seem to have low energy and bright red, cold skin.
Seek medical help immediately or go to a hospital if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms. It's better to be overly cautious than to ignore vital warning signs.
THE 7 PS OF COLD WEATHER SAFETY
How can you prevent hypothermia?
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There are several ways to prevent hypothermia, but the most important is staying warm and dry. Make sure to dress in layers when you're outside in cold weather, and if your clothes get wet, you need to change into something warmer. Wear a hat outdoors to protect your head and prevent frostbite.
Make sure the temperature inside your home is comfortable. Remember, you can get hypothermia in temperatures as warm as 60 degrees.
It's also essential to ask your doctor if any medications you take daily can increase your risk of hypothermia.
If you're with someone who may have hypothermia, call an ambulance since this is an emergency situation.
The National Weather Service said the next thing you can do is lie close to the person and cover yourselves with thick blankets. The warmer you get, the warmer the other person will get.