Hypothermia
The normal body temperature is approximately 37
oC, and a person is in hypothermia when their body temperature is below this. Amongst other reasons, the body should be kept at this temperature as it is the optimum temperature for enzyme activity.
Temperature Guide
Below 32
oC - major organs fail, death soon occurs
Recognising Hypothermia
The casualty may:
- Be shivering (either mild or strong)
- Body parts become numb
- Goose bumps can occur
- Coordination becomes difficult
- Become pale
- Be confused
Heat Conservation
The body will attempt to keep major organs warm so as to keep alive. Consequently, blood flow and heat will be diverted away from the extremities, arms and legs. If this occurs for too long, the part of the body will become unsalvageable.
Treatment
Take the casualty to a warmer place, free of wind. Wrap the person in more layers - coats, blankets for example. Give the person a warm (not hot) drink, which is not fizzy or alcoholic. Use your own body heat to warm the person. In severe cases, contact the emergency services.
Do Not:
- Remove wet clothes from the casualty.
- Give hot, alcoholic or fizzy drinks to the casualty.
- Give food to the casualty (warm or not).
- Heat the person directly, with a device such as a hot water bottle.
Remember the Difference
"Hypo- is low [temperatures]".
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Citations:
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Gallagher, R. M., & Ingram, P. (1997). Enzymes In GCSE Chemistry (pp. 130-131). Oxford: Oxford University Press.
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Handley, A.J. (2006). Life Support: Basic Skills to Save Lives. Broom: Royal Life Saving Society (UK).
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National Institute on Aging. (1989). Hyperthermia. Retrieved April 2, 2007, from Walter Reed Army Medical Center Web site: http://www.wramc.amedd.army.mil/education/hyperthe.htm
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