HYPOTHERMIA TREATMENT AND PREVENTION

Avoiding hypothermia is the key. Hypothermia can be prevented by understanding the causes and preventing the occasion. THINK AHEAD if going hiking , skiing or other outdoor activities. Carry enough warm clothing and fluids. Keep small children well hydrated and avoid prolonged overexposure of small children to cold weather.

Hypothermia, regardless of the cause, is considered to be life-threatening. It is defined as a drop in core temperature of less than 95*F(35*C) and may result in death if left untreated.

Symptoms will depend on the degree of hypothermia. A patient may have shivering , cold bluish lips and extremities and slowly lapse into an unconscious state. Trauma and prolonged exposure to cold in the outdoors may lead to hypothermia. Small children and the elderly are also at risk. For more information on this topic, click on the link: Bair Hugger