Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Remember, normal body temperature is approximately 37 degrees C (98.6 degrees F). When cold weather causes this temperature to go down, serious problems, even death, can result.
Symptoms of hypothermia include uncomfortable shivering, impaired speech, and awkward or clumsy body movements. If the condition becomes severe, muscles may become rigid, skin may turn dark and puffy, and the victim could become unconscious.
If you identify symptoms in yourself or someone you are with, take the following first-aid steps immediately.
- Get the victim (or yourself) to a warm location.
- Remove any wet clothing, belts, etc., that might restrict circulation.
- Warm the victim by wrapping him or her in blankets or immersing the person in a tub of warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot.
Frostbite
Frostbite is a common cold-weather injury. It occurs when the fluids and underlying soft tissue of the skin freeze. The most commonly affected areas are the nose, cheeks, ears, fingers, and toes. Frostbite is accelerated by wind and humidity.
(It is important to understand the basics of wind-chill. The wind chill is the temperature as it affects the skin only. A cold wind will not necessarily make water freeze if the actual temperature is above 0 degrees C (32 degrees F), but it may freeze the skin—keep that in mind!)
Symptoms of frostbite include gray or yellowish patches of skin. The affected part(s) are usually numb but feel cold. Pain is sometimes felt early but later disappears. The skin remains soft and flexible, but after it thaws becomes red and flaky.
If the frostbite is severe (deep), the skin is generally waxy and pale, which on thawing may turn blue or purple. Large blisters may also appear.
First aid for frostbite includes bringing the victim indoors and providing warm, nonalcoholic beverages. Warm the frozen area by immersing it in warm water or wrapping it in blankets or clean clothing. Do not rub the affected area; that can lead to gangrene. Obtain medical assistance as soon as possible.