Symptoms of Severe Hypothermia that Everyone Should Know?

Recognizing Severe Hypothermia Symptoms

When treating hypothermia in the field, it’s essential to recognize the early warning signs. These include shivering, confusion, difficulty speaking, and drowsiness. If the person’s body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), they may experience more severe symptoms such as loss of coordination, numbness or tingling in extremities, and slurred speech. In severe cases, the person may become unresponsive, experience seizures, or experience cardiac arrest. If you suspect someone has severe hypothermia, call for medical help immediately.

Rewarming Techniques

There are several rewarming techniques you can use in the field to help raise a person’s body temperature. One of the most effective methods is active rewarming with a warm water bath. This involves immersing the person in warm water (around 98°F to 100°F) for 20 to 30 minutes. Another effective method is active rewarming with warm blankets and a space blanket. This involves wrapping the person in warm blankets and using a space blanket to reflect radiant heat back onto the person. It’s essential to avoid using direct heat sources such as candles or fires, as they can cause burns.

Afterdrop and Special Considerations

Afterdrop is a critical consideration when treating severe hypothermia. Afterdrop occurs when the body temperature drops further after rewarming has begun. This can happen if the person is moved from a cold environment to a warm environment too quickly, causing the body to release cold blood into the core. To prevent afterdrop, it’s essential to rewarm the person slowly and carefully, monitoring their body temperature closely. Additionally, severe hypothermia can cause cardiac arrhythmias, so it’s essential to monitor the person’s heart rate and rhythm closely. If you’re not a trained medical professional, it’s best to seek help from a medical professional as soon as possible.