It is frightfully cold outside.  The base temperature, along with the wind chill, produces an ideal environment for cold injuries.  I have already discussed frostbite.  I think it is important to mention another temperature based issue…Hypothermia.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is the lowering of the core body temperature below 95 degrees F (35 C).  This represents the beginning of hypothermia based on temperature.  In actuality, there are several stages of hypothermia that present with different symptoms.  These stages are not exact but only represent a range.

• Mild (HT 1) – This represents a core temperature of between 90-95 F (32-35 C).  The major clinical sign is intense shivering.
• Moderate (HT II) – This is altered mental status without shivering.  Shivering usually ceases around 30 C.  The temperature range is around 82-90 F ( 28-32 C).
• Severe (HT III) – This is represented by unconsciousness.  Temp range 75-82 F (24-28 C).
• Profound (HT IV) – Apparent death but resuscitation may be possible.  56.7-75 F (13.7-24 C).
• Death (HT V) – Resuscitation not possible.  < 56.7 F (13.7 C). 

Risk factors

Ethanol and drug use, homelessness, psychiatric disease, and the elderly.

Prevention

• Avoid prolonged exposure to cold weather
• Avoid bare skin exposure (esp. the head, hands, feet)
• Wear appropriate warm clothing and dress in layers.
• Avoid alcohol or drug use in cold weather.
• Change out of wet clothes as soon as possible.

Treatment

• Remove wet clothing immediately and cover with warm blankets or dry clothing
• Relocate to a warm environment.  Try to raise the room temperature to 80-82 F.
• Provide warm liquids in victim is able to drink.
• Obtain emergency care if victim does not warm up or if symptoms indicate more than mild hypothermia.