Guard against Winter Dip

Hypothermia refers to any condition in which the temperature of a body drops below the level required for normal metabolism and/or bodily functions to take place.

What is hypothermia

Hypothermia refers to any condition in which the temperature of a body drops below the level required for normal metabolism and/or bodily functions to take place. 8220;In warm-blooded animals, core body temperature is maintained at or near a constant level through biologic homeostasis. When the body is exposed to colder temperatures, however, its internal mechanisms may be unable to replenish the heat that is being lost to the body8217;s surroundings,8221; said Dr Anoop Misra.

How to recognise hypothermia

The biggest indicator of hypothermia is confusion. The first thing to go as your body loses heat is your brain function. In fact, doctors say once body temperature drops below 95 degrees, for each additional degree of temperature loss, you lose about four per cent of your brain8217;s processing power.

Other symptoms: If you start to slur while speaking or feel very fatigued or lethargic or start breathing very slowly, you should try to get medical attention immediately. 8220;In hypothermia, multiple organ function becomes deranged, the pancreas shows inflammation, the kidney slows down and the patient is at risk of death. These people will need very high intensive care,8221; said Misra.

Who is at risk

Alcoholics are at a higher risk. They are not aware of early symptoms and their blood circulation is poor.

Children, as their thermal auto regulation is poor, especially low birth-weight children born premature.

Elderly, as their blood circulation is poor as is auto thermal regulation. Certain drug therapies also constrict blood vessels, decreasing circulation.

What to do

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Get the person inside a warm room and cover with quilts and warm blankets. If getting indoors is not possible, use a warm blanket for insulation even outside. Once inside, remove any wet or constricting clothes and replace them with dry clothing.

If any symptoms of hypothermia are present, especially confusion or changes in mental status, the local emergency service should be immediately contacted. If the person is unconscious, check their airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing or CPR. If the victim is breathing less than 6 breaths per minute, begin rescue breathing.

If necessary, use your own body heat to aid the warming. Apply warm compresses to the neck, chest wall and groin.

If the person is alert and can easily swallow, give warm, sweetened, non-alcoholic fluids. Do not give the person alcohol.