Hypothermia in winter: symptoms and prevention methods

With the arrival of winter and temperatures plummeting to record lows in some areas, the health risks associated with cold weather increase, most notably hypothermia. This medical emergency occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the core body temperature to drop below normal and safe levels, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly and effectively.

Body physiology and cold

Medically speaking, the human body strives to maintain an internal temperature of approximately 37 degrees Celsius. When exposed to extreme cold, the body begins to deplete its stored energy reserves to maintain warmth. If the temperature drops below 35 degrees Celsius, the functions of the heart, nervous system, and other vital organs are affected, potentially leading to organ failure and death in advanced cases. The danger of this condition lies in its direct impact on consciousness, preventing the brain from functioning properly, thus rendering the affected individual unaware of their condition and unable to seek help.

Most vulnerable groups

Although the cold affects everyone, there are specific groups that are more vulnerable to low temperatures and require special care:

• The elderly: With advancing age, the body's ability to regulate temperature and feel cold decreases, especially for those who are malnourished or do not have adequate heating in their homes.
• Children and infants: Children lose body heat faster than adults because of their larger skin surface area relative to their weight, and they may not be able to express their feeling of cold or take steps to warm themselves, especially when sleeping in cold rooms.
• Outdoor workers: People whose work requires them to stay outdoors for long periods are in direct danger.
• Alcohol and drug users: These substances cause blood vessels to dilate, giving a false feeling of warmth while the body loses heat very quickly.

Warning signs: How to detect infection?

Symptoms vary depending on age group and severity of the infection, but the following signs should be noted:

In adults:

• Continuous shivering (which is the body's attempt to generate heat, but it may stop if the condition worsens).
• Feeling extremely tired and experiencing unexplained drowsiness.
• Confusion, memory loss, and difficulty speaking clearly (stuttering).
• Rapid and shallow breathing.
• A significant increase in urination as a result of the kidneys' response to cold (Diuresis).

For children and infants:

• The skin became noticeably cold and red.
• Lethargy and a decrease in activity and energy levels.

Prevention and protection strategies

To protect against these risks, experts recommend following strict preventive measures during cold waves:

• Wear appropriate clothing: Adhere to the principle of "layering" so that the clothing traps warm air, while ensuring that the head and limbs are covered.
• Drying: Change wet clothes immediately, whether the wetness is due to rain or sweat, as water delivers coolness to the body 25 times faster than air.
• Securing the home environment: Ensure windows are insulated and provide safe heating, especially in rooms for the elderly and children.
• Community monitoring: Check on elderly neighbors and relatives during frost waves to ensure their safety.