Winter storm alert: How to recognize and treat hypothermia amid severe cold

As a powerful winter storm is forecast to sweep across the nation, bringing snow, ice, and dangerously low temperatures, the risk of hypothermia is expected to rise. With nearly 70 million people set to be under winter alerts and blizzard conditions in effect, it’s essential to take precautions against this life-threatening cold-related illness.
Hypothermia is a serious condition that can occur when exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce, leading to dangerously low body temperature.
It can be life-threatening, especially in extreme winter weather.
It is important to understand the risks, symptoms of the condition, and steps to take in case of exposure to cold temperatures.

What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia is one of the major killers in extreme cold conditions. This could happen to a hiker, climber, hunter, or a stranded traveler and can even result in loss of life.
According to the CDC, it happens upon exposure to very cold temperatures for a long period of time. Such an exposure can lead to loss of heat from the body faster than it is produced. Prolonged exposure may use up the body’s stored energy, which can lower the body temperature to dangerous levels.

Hypothermia’s effect on brain

When your body’s temperature drops dangerously, it can have a debilitating effect on your brain too. People who are stuck in a snowstorm or blizzard, may not be able to think clearly or move well and may not even realise what’s happening to them.
Hypothermia can also occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.

Shivering
Exhaustion or feeling very tired
Confusion
Fumbling hands
Memory loss
Slurred speech
Drowsiness

Babies

Bright red, cold skin
Very low energy

How to know it’s hypothermia

If a person’s body temperature is below 95° F, get medical attention. In the meanwhile try to get the person warm:
– Get them into a warm room or shelter.
– Change the person into dry clothes.
– Warm the center of the person’s body—chest, neck, head, and groin—using an electric blanket, if available.
– You can also use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing, towels, or sheets.
– Warm drinks can help increase body temperature.
– After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrap their body, including their head and neck, in a warm blanket.

In case a person becomes unconscious or you are not able to find the pulse, rush them to hospital immediately. Performing CPR in this case is recommended.
(Picture courtesy: iStock)