Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body gets cold and loses heat faster than the body can make it.

A body temperature below normal can be a sign of hypothermia.

A rectal temperature is considered the most accurate body temperature. A normal rectal body temperature ranges from 97.5 F (36.4 C) to 99.6 F (37.6 C) , and for most people it is 98.6 F (37 C) .

Early symptoms of hypothermia include:

• Shivering.
• Cold, pale, or blue-gray skin.
• Lack of interest or concern (apathy).
• Poor judgment.
• Mild unsteadiness in balance or walking.
• Slurred speech.
• Numb hands and fingers and problems performing tasks.

Late symptoms include:

• The trunk of the body is cold to the touch.
• Muscles becoming stiff.
• Slow pulse.
• Breathing that is shallow and slower.
• Weakness or sleepiness.
• Confusion.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Shivering, which may stop if body temperature drops below 90 F (32 C) .

It is very important to know the symptoms of hypothermia and get treatment quickly. Often a hiker or skier's body temperature will drop really low before others notice that something is wrong. If someone begins to shiver violently, stumble, or can't respond to questions, it may be hypothermia. You need to quickly help the person get warm.

Sometimes a normal, healthy adult has a low body temperature, such as 96 F (36 C) . If the person with the low body temperature is not ill, does not have any other problems, and is not an infant or an older adult, then evaluation usually is not needed.

Medical treatment for hypothermia depends on the severity of the hypothermia.

If you have mild hypothermia, home treatment may be enough to bring your body temperature back up to normal. Treatment of mild hypothermia includes getting out of the cold or wet environment, using warm blankets, heaters, and hot water bottles.

Moderate to severe hypothermia generally is treated in the hospital, where doctors can use special techniques to warm the core body temperature.

• Be safe with medicines. Give your child medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with the medicine.
• To prevent dehydration, have your child drink plenty of fluids. If your child has to limit fluids because of a health problem, talk with your doctor before you increase how much your child drinks.
• Make sure your child gets plenty of rest at home. Keep your child warm.

To prevent hypothermia

• Cover your child's head, hands, and feet whenever your child might be in cold or wet weather.
• Keep your child as dry as you can.
• Have your child wear layers of loose clothing.
• Pack a car kit with items you and your child will need to stay warm. It may include fire-starting kits, a lighter, and extra clothing. You also may want to include drinking water and food. You can bring a sleeping bag too. You and your child can warm up more easily by sharing the bag.