Every year we are faced with bouts of cold weather where we bundle up and endure. Sometimes we push ourselves to gallivant outside without proper protection because we “feel fine” and “it isn’t THAT cold”. While the term “cold weather” may be defined differently depending on one’s own experiences, low temperatures will adversely affect the body no matter one's experience.  

The National Weather Service will issue weather alerts, wind chill advisories, and warnings when a deadly combination of wind and cold air threaten. However, don't get caught unprepared. Check the Forecast at weather.gov or a favorite weather app. Make checking the forecast part of a regular routine to know when to expect cold weather. Be sure to check the wind chill, NOT only the temperature!

(With thanks to Jenn London for the research!)

Frostbite and Hypothermia 

What is Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a condition that occurs when core body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). It is a medical emergency. In hypothermia (hi-poe-THUR-me-uh), the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Regular body temperature is around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius).

When body temperature drops, the heart, nervous system and other organs can't work as well as they usually do. Left untreated, hypothermia can cause the heart and respiratory system to fail and eventually can lead to death.

Common causes of hypothermia include exposure to cold weather or immersion in cold water. Treatment for hypothermia includes methods to warm the body back to a regular temperature.

Symptoms

When the temperature starts to drop, the body can start to shiver. Shivering is the body's attempt to warm itself. It is an automatic defense against cold temperature.

Symptoms of hypothermia include:

• Shivering.

• Slurred speech or mumbling.

• Slow, shallow breathing.

• Weak pulse.

• Clumsiness or lack of coordination.

• Drowsiness or very low energy.

• Confusion or memory loss.

• Loss of consciousness.

• In infants, bright red, cold skin.

People with hypothermia usually aren't aware of their condition. The symptoms often begin gradually. Also, the confused thinking associated with hypothermia prevents self-awareness. The confused thinking also can lead to risk-taking behavior.

When to see a doctor

Call 911 or your local emergency number if you suspect someone has hypothermia.

While waiting for emergency help to arrive, gently move the person inside if possible. Jarring movements can trigger dangerous irregular heartbeats. Carefully remove any wet clothing and replace it with warm, dry coats or blankets.

(mayoclinic.org) 

What is Frostbite 

Frostbite happens when the body's survival mechanisms kick in during extremely cold weather. To protect the vital inner organs, the body cuts circulation to your extremities: feet, hands, nose, etc., which eventually freeze. 

Signs & Symptoms of Frostbite

• Redness or pain in any skin area may be the first sign of frostbite.

Other signs include:

• a white or grayish-yellow skin area

• skin that feels unusually firm or waxy

• numbness

To avoid frostbite, stay inside during severe cold, especially when the windchill is -50°F or below. If you must go out, try to cover every part of your body: ears, nose, toes and fingers, etc. Mittens are better than gloves. Keep your skin dry. Stay out of the wind when possible. Drink plenty of fluids since hydration increases the blood's volume, which helps prevent frostbite.Avoid caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes. Caffeine constricts blood vessels, preventing warming of your extremities. Alcohol reduces shivering, which helps keep you warm. Cigarettes restrict the blood flow to your hands.  

Remember:

Frostbite and hypothermia take less time than you think! It can happen in minutes. Your fingers are the first to freeze. Toes are often forgotten. Ears have no fat protection! Your nose is always exposed. Your cheeks have direct wind contact.
These freeze before you feel it!!

The Do’s and Don’ts: 

The way to avoid frostbite and hypothermia is to plan for extreme cold before it arrives. If you or someone you care about must venture outdoors during extreme cold this winter, dress in layers. Cover exposed skin to reduce your risk of frostbite or hypothermia. Try to seek shelter from the wind as much as possible while outside. Once inside again, change into dry clothing immediately if you are wet. Watch for frostbite and hypothermia, and take immediate action upon the first detection of either.