Hypothermia Help

Extreme chilling of the body caused by exposure to cold- whether indoors or outdoors – is dangerous and can often be fatal. Hypothermia, which is indicated by shivering, drowsiness and a slow pulse, is particularly common in elderly people, newborn babies and those already suffering from some form of illness.

Hypothermia can also affect anyone who is exposed to prolonged and extreme cold and damp, for example sailors, mountaineers and people taking part in winter sports.

The situation becomes dangerous when the body temperature drops from its normal 37°C to below 35°C and the metabolism begins to slow down. Once the temperature drops to below 33°C, the shivering stops and the person will become confused and unsteady. Unconsciousness occurs at 30°C, and the patient may die unless help is rapidly given.

Preventing Hypothermia

There are several steps that can be taken to stop yourself from becoming dangerously cold;

• Make sure you take plenty of warm drinks throughout the day.

• Try to eat at least one hot meal a day.

• Wear warm clothes. Several thin layers are more effective at trapping warmth than one thick one.

• Wear a hat to prevent body heat being lost through the head. Babies are especially vulnerable to this kind of heat loss.

• Try to keep active. Sitting in one position for a long time will only make you feel colder.

• Keep at least one room in the house warm – at a temperature of 21°C. Check for droughts and block any gaps.

• On cold nights, keep a thermos flask with a warm, sweet drink by your bed side.

• Do not drink alcohol when outdoors in cold. It decreases stamina and mental sharpness and also causes heat loss.

• In case you are camping, make sure your tent is strong, waterproof and windproof.