Winter and Hypothermia

Winter is here guys and girls, so......

Although winter is a great time because of the snow, you have to remember that the human body is easily affected by changes in temperatures.
Although all of us will wrap warm, you have to remember that children and older people are more likely to suffer the effects of the cold weather. Age UK estimates that up to 25,000 older people could die because of the cold weather.

What effect does a drop in temperature have on my body?

Your body temperature is around about 37^oC. The danger is that if your temperature drops by just one degree Celsius, it can have a detrimental effect on your body.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so instead of me explaining the effects see the picture below;

How do I know that someone is suffering from hypothermia?

The symptoms are:

• Shivering and cold skin
• Disorientation (confused as to where they are)
• Apathy or irrational behaviour, sometimes they can also be aggressive
• Impaired consciousness or being lethargic (sleepy or drowsy)
• Slow and shallow breathing
• Slow pulse which may gradually get weaker 

In some cases due to the slow pulse and slow breathing rate, the heart may stop.

So how do I treat them?

If they have been outside, replace their wet clothes with dry clothes.  If the person is able to get into a bath unaided, then run a bath at approximately 40^oC. Then put them into a bed and wrap them up. Give them hot drinks and high energy food such as chocolate (chocolate is good for you in moderation).

Should I call an ambulance?

There are some people who will call 999 for the randomest reasons, that's probably why the London Ambulance Service have this on their windows....

Call 999 if:

• They are in shock 
• They have serve difficulty in breathing (e.g are they wheezy?)
• They are unconscious
• They are not breathing and have no pulse

 So this winter, stay warm, drink lots of hot drinks, watch older people and children and have FUN!