Fighting Extreme Cold

 

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a sickness which takes place when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat.

Areas of Risk

  • Anywhere in the province
  • During cold weather or rain
  • When travelling by boat

Causes

Hypothermia is caused by heat loss to the environment. It can be caused by anything that increase the rate of heat loss, such as exposure to water or wind. It can also be made worse by some mediacal conditions, and substances such as alchohol and drugs. Conditions that affect a person's ability to feel cold are also considered risk factors for hypothermia.

Environmental Causes

  • Exposure to cold air
  • Submersion in cold water (less than 15 degrees Celsius)
  • Wet or damp clothing
  • Exposure to wind or wind chill

Secondary Causes

  • Exhaustion
  • Thyroid disorder
  • Severe Trauma
  • Drugs, Alcohol, and Medications

Symptoms

Hypothermia has several degrees or stages. The first stage is harmless, but the second and third stage can be deadly and require medical attention. When treating a person for second or third stage hypothermia, remember that it is possible to induce a heart attack on the affected person if they are mishandled. Avoid exposure to hot water or hot liquid drinks, and do not handle them roughly.

Stage 1: Mild Hypothermia

  • Shivering
  • Goosebumps

Stage 2: Moderate Hypothermia

  • Severe Shivering
  • Lack of muscle control
  • Slurred speech
  • Fingertips turning blue
  • Bright red skin
  • Lack of energy

Stage 3: Severe Hypothermia

  • Inability to shiver
  • Reduced mental capacity
  • Weak pulse and lower heart rate
  • Memory loss

Stage 4: Critical Hypothermia

At this stage, the person would be unconcious. They may not have a pulse and may appear dead. Be very careful with the patient and call for medical help immediately.

Treatment

If you or a friend starts to feel the symptoms of mild hypothermia, they should take steps to rewarm their body.

  • Go indoors, if possible.
  • Obtain proper warm and dry clothing.

A person with stage two to three hypothermia may be treated by simple means such as bringing them indoors, and wrapping them with warm blankets or clothing. It is not recommended that you give them a hot bath or let them drink hot liquids, since this may send the patient into shock.

Do not:

  • Submerge the patient in hot water.
  • Give them a hot drink.
  • Give them alcohol.

If the person has severe or critical hypothermia, seek medical help immediately and avoid excessive movement that could induce shock or heart attack on the patient.