Ways to prevent hypothermia, frostbite during winter’s extreme temperatures

Being in the cold too long can cause serious health problems. When temperatures drop below freezing, staying safe and healthy can be challenging.

The Illinois Department of Public Health said hypothermia and frostbite are the most common cold-related health problems that occur during winter.

When there are high winds, serious weather-related health problems are more likely. Wind chill is the “feels like” temperature, combining the wind speed and the actual temperature. It is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by the effects of wind and cold, according to the IDPH.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature, is a dangerous condition that can occur when a person is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well.

“This makes hypothermia especially dangerous because a person may not know that it’s happening, become confused, and won’t be able to do anything about it,” according to the IDPH.

Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures.

Hypothermia can be fatal if not detected promptly and treated properly, according to the IDPH. Even mildly cool indoor temperatures of 60 degrees to 65 degrees for an extended period of time can trigger hypothermia.

“Infants and the elderly are particularly at risk of hypothermia. Infants younger than 1 year of age should never sleep in a cold room because they lose body heat more easily than adults and because, unlike adults, infants cannot make enough body heat by shivering,” the IDPH said.

Provide warm clothing and blankets for infants and try to maintain a warm indoor temperature.

Older adults often make less body heat because of a slower metabolism and less physical activity.

“If you are 65 years of age or older, check the temperature in your home often during severely cold weather. Also, check on elderly friends and neighbors frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated,” the IDPH said.

Warnings signs of hypothermia:

Adults:

• shivering, exhaustion
• confusion, fumbling hands
• memory loss, slurred speech, drowsiness

Infants:

• red, cold skin

• very low energy

If you notice any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95 degrees the situation is an emergency. Get medical attention immediately.

Frostbite

Frostbite is a bodily injury caused by freezing that results in the loss of feeling and color in affected areas. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can lead to amputation, according to the IDPH.

Parts of the body most affected by frostbite are exposed areas of the face (cheeks, nose, chin, forehead), the ears, wrists, hands and feet.

“Frostbitten skin is whitish and stiff, and the area will feel numb rather than painful. If you notice these signs, take immediate action,” the IDPH said.

To treat frostbite, warm the affected part of the body gradually. Immerse the affected area in warm – not hot – water. Health officials said the temperature should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected parts of the body.

You also can wrap the frostbitten area in blankets, sweaters, coats, etc. If no warm wrappings are available, place frostbitten hands under your armpits or use your body to cover the affected area.

“Do not rub frostbitten areas. The friction can damage the tissue. Do not use a heating pad; heat lamp; or the heat of a stove, fireplace or radiator for warming. Affected areas are numb and can be easily burned,” the IDPH said.

If frostbite occurs, take emergency action to begin warming the affected body part; then seek medical attention immediately, according to the IDPH.

Dressing for the cold

If you need to be outside, the following suggestions will help keep you warm and protect your body from excessive heat loss.

• Wear several layers of lightweight clothing rather than one or two layers of heavy garments. The air between the layers of clothing acts as insulation to keep you warmer.
• Cover your head, ears and the lower part of your face. The ears, nose, chin and forehead are most susceptible to frostbite. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect the lungs from directly inhaling extremely cold air.
• Wear waterproofs shoes or boots.