Hypothermia is defined as having a core body temperature
less than 95 degrees F or 35 degrees C. It most often occurs because of
prolonged exposure to cold weather.
Shivering is the body's automatic defense against cold
temperature, as it attempts to warm itself. It is one of the symptoms of
hypothermia. Other symptoms include clumsiness or lack of coordination, slurred
speech, confusion, poor decision making (i.e. removing clothes), drowsiness,
apathy, loss of consciousness, weak pulse and shallow breathing. People with
hypothermia often do not know what they are suffering from because of their
confused state.
According to WebMD, treatment for hypothermia includes restoring
warmth slowly. This is done by getting the person indoors and removing any wet
clothing. If wet, dry the person off and warm their trunk first (warming
extremities first can cause shock). Wrap the person in blankets or put dry
clothes on them.
Do not immerse the person in warm water. Rapid warming can
cause heart arrhythmia. If using hot water bottles or chemical hot packs, wrap
them in cloth; don't apply them directly to the skin. Begin CPR, if necessary, while
warming the person.
Give the person warm fluids if they are conscious, but not
coffee or alcohol. Finally, keep them warm and seek medical treatment.
