➡️ What is Hypothermia?

Hypothermia occurs when a person's body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), which is much lower than normal (98.6°F or 37°C). It happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce, usually because of cold weather, wet conditions, or prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.

🆘 Symptoms of Hypothermia:

• Shivering: One of the first signs of hypothermia.

• Confusion or poor decision-making.

• Slurred speech.

• Frostbite on fingers, toes, nose, or ears.

• Tiredness and difficulty moving.

• Shallow breathing and weak pulse.

• Loss of coordination.

• Unconsciousness in severe cases.

🛠️ How to Treat Hypothermia? (Step-by-step)

1. Move to a warmer place:

   • Get the person out of the cold and into a warmer environment, such as a heated shelter or building.

2. Remove wet clothing:

   • Take off any wet or cold clothing and replace it with dry, warm clothing or blankets.

3. Cover the person:

   • Cover the person with blankets, clothes, or sleeping bags to keep them warm. Focus on warming the core (chest, abdomen, and head).

4. Warm the person gradually:

   • Use warm, dry compresses (like a warm towel or hot water bottle) to gently warm the person. Avoid using hot water directly on the skin or heating pads as they can cause burns.

5. Offer warm fluids (if conscious):

   • Give warm, non-alcoholic drinks like water, soup, or tea. Avoid alcohol, as it can make the condition worse.

6. Monitor breathing:

   • Keep checking the person’s breathing and pulse. If they stop breathing or their heart stops, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation).

7. Seek medical help:

   • Call for emergency services immediately (911 or local emergency numbers).

🧠 Easy to remember:

1. Move the person to a warm place.

2. Remove wet clothes and warm them with blankets.

3. Warm the core gradually with compresses.

4. Offer warm fluids if the person is awake.

5. Monitor their breathing and call for help.