How to keep hypothermia and frostbite at bay.
Don’t plan to get through this winter by just toughing it out. Saying “I can handle the cold” might just set you up for some potentially serious trouble that can arrive quickly, unannounced and sometimes unnoticed.
During these cold-weather months, it is important to stay warm and dry whether you are skiing the slopes or driving through snowstorms. Hypothermia and frostbite are common conditions that can occur both outdoors and indoors, but they are preventable and treatable with the right know how.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95 degrees F, but it doesn’t occur only in subzero temperatures. Being in windy weather with wet clothes, prolonged exposure to cold conditions, even temperatures from 32 to 50 degrees F can cause hypothermia. The first warning sign is uncontrollable shivering, and other symptoms include loss of concentration, loss of muscle control, skin on the face turning gray or blue, drowsiness or lethargy, and, in the case of severe hypothermia, lack of shivering and slowed breathing. A person may also experience slurred speech.
Older people are more susceptible to hypothermia because changes with age make it more difficult for a person to discern his or her body temperature. Other risk factors include heart and circulatory problems, tight clothing that restricts circulation, fatigue, hunger and dehydration. Drinking alcohol causes rapid loss of body heat and should be avoided during cold weather.
To prevent hypothermia, wear layers of loose clothing. Natural fibers like wool retain heat more efficiently. Wear insulated boots and warm headwear, since most body heat is lost through the scalp. Drink plenty of fluids and eat regularly. While driving, take regular breaks to avoid fatigue. It is also a good idea to carry a thermometer during severely cold weather to periodically measure body temperature.
If driving solo in cold weather, have a buddy to call in case of a snowstorm or stalled truck.
