skiology

hypothermia

• Hypothermia - A life threatening condition where the body temperature of the person drops dramatically below normal. Hypothermia is a rapid, progressive mental and physical collapse that accompanies the lowering of body temperature. Hypothermia is brought on by exposure to the cold, aggravated by wet, wind, and exhaustion.
  
  According to hypothermia.org It has been stated that there is no longer any excuse for hypothermia deaths; the knowledge and the technology needed to cope with hypothermia exist, so that treatment is now a matter of preparedness with the application of up-to-date techniques and equipment. Many hypothermia cases can be successfully treated, providing that treatment starts immediately upon rescue and is continued during transportation to a medical facility.
  

  Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature drops below 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.  Some common warning signs are uncontrollable shivering, disorientation, incoherent or slurred speech and cold pale skin.  If the condition goes untreated, drowsiness, extreme confusion and slowed breathing will occur. When the body’s core temperature drops below 95 degrees, shivering may stop, but he or she is suffering from hypothermia and may lose consciousness or even die. Seek medical care immediately!

  Cold-related problems can be even worse when the wind blows.  As wind speed increases, heat is carried away from the body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature. Wind chill is the term used to describe and quantify the rate of heat loss from exposed skin. It combines the effects of wind and cold temperatures.

  Although hypothermia is more commonly recognized as an outdoor hazard, it can occur indoors as well. Elderly or infirm persons are at risk even indoors and should take precautions to keep thermostats above 65 degrees and dress warmly. [source www.crh.noaa.gov]

Useful sites to look at include:

www.hypothermia.org
www.patient.co.uk
www.resus.org.uk

Disclaimer: This information is given as a brief overview of the subject. It IS NOT intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek professional medical advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

.