DiseaseInjuryNutritionPoison
Special TopicSurgerySymptomsTest
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
W
Exercise - dress appropriately
Exercise - dress appropriately
Skin layers
Skin layers
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Hypothermia

Definition:

Hypothermia is dangerously low body temperature, below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Centigrade).



Alternative Names:
Low body temperature; Cold exposure

Considerations:

People who are most likely to experience hypothermia include those who are:

  • Very old or very young
  • Chronically ill, especially with heart or circulation problems
  • Malnourished
  • Overly tired
  • Under the influence of alcohol or other drugs


Causes:

Hypothermia occurs when more heat is lost than the body can generate. It is usually caused by extended exposure to the cold.

Common causes include:

  • Being outside without enough protective clothing in the winter.
  • Falling overboard from a boat into cold water.
  • Wearing wet clothing for an extended period of time in windy or very cold weather.
  • Heavy exertion, not drinking enough fluids, or not eating enough in cold weather (even in above-freezing temperatures).


Review Date: 8/22/2003
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Steven Angelo, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (1/12/2003).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com