Health and Medical: May 2008 Archives

 

HYPOTHERMIA

 

No matter what you plan to do this June - clam digging, fishing, river rafting, boating, or swimming - BE AWARE - the water is still cold and HYPOTHERMIA happens quickly.

As surprising as this may sound, hypothermia is a serious risk during the spring.  As temperatures warm up people, especially children, turn to outdoor water activities and may not be aware that water temperatures are much colder due to snow pack run-off. Use caution and learn the symptoms of hypothermia and the steps to take if someone experiences hypothermia.

(Louise comments:  Hypothermia is a huge concern during disaster situations or extended exposure as well.)

What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a condition in which a person's body temperature has dropped significantly below normal. This can occur from extended activity in cold water as the loss of body heat occurs 25 times faster in cold water than in cold air. The very young and elderly are the most susceptible to developing hypothermia when exposed to cold temperatures.

The risk and extent of hypothermia is directly influenced by presence of wet clothing, contact with metals, wind-chill, and extent of temperature gradient between the body and its surroundings. Vulnerability is increased when circulation is impaired by cardiovascular disease, alcohol intake, exhaustion, and/or hunger. 

What are the symptoms of hypothermia?

• Uncontrolled shivering
• Slow or unclear speech
• Feeling extremely tired
• Stumbling when attempting to walk
• Confusion (person cannot think clearly)
• Semi-consciousness or unconsciousness

What should I do if someone has hypothermia?

• If a person becomes unconscious, get medical help immediately. If cardiac arrest (heart attack) has occurred, have someone call for medical assistance and then apply CPR.
• WARNING: Do not warm the person too fast.
• Bring the person indoors or to a dry place protected from the wind.
• Remove wet clothing and cover the person with dry blankets. Make sure to cover the head, hands, and feet.
• Put the person in a cot or bed next to a warm - not hot - heater.
• Lie under the covers next to the person to transfer your own body heat. If possible, have someone else lie on the other side.
• Give the person warm - not hot - broth or soup. Do not give alcohol to drink.
• Wrap an infant inside your own clothing against your skin.

Reprinted from Washington State Emergency Management Website. Go to link:  

 http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_infocus.shtml