QUESTION: I think I am confused about two terms and would like you to straighten them out for me.
I am concerned about "hypothermia" and realize it is not the same as "frost bite," but just what is it? Can you explain a bit about its causes and the correct way to treat it? As you see, we live in a part of the country where this is important information for us to have.
ANSWER: Simply stated, frost bite is a condition where certain tissues of the body freeze, while in hypothermia the whole body becomes too cold to function properly.
Hypothermia occurs when the heat loss of the body exceeds its ability to produce heat, and the core or central temperature of the body drops below 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit).
At this level, the chemistry of the body becomes altered, respiratory centers of the brain are effected, heart rate is affected as is the blood.
The heat of the body comes from the metabolism of food and water, and may be lost by four mechanisms; radiation, conduction, convection and evaporation.
About 50 percent of the body's total heat production can be lost by radiation through an unprotected and uncovered head.
The amount lost by convection (loss of heat through movement of the air) increases with the speed of the wind, and loss through evaporation, normally through sweat and breathing, is greatly increased when the skin becomes wet.
So the outside temperature, and wind chill factors greatly influence heat loss.
So do certain drugs; nicotine, alcohol, barbiturates, opiates, and certain antidepressants.
Senior citizens and small children are also at increased risks because of the workings of their heat regulation systems.
In the early stages of hypothermia, or when it is considered mild (core temperature between 32 and 35 degrees C.), the body may try to raise its temperature by shivering.
These rapid muscular contractions may increase heat production up to five times normal.
In this stage, moving the patient to a warm and sheltered environment, the use of heated blankets, and warm, sweet, beverages are useful and appropriate.
However, hospitalization is required for severe hypothermia (core temperature below 32 degrees C.), where more aggressive means of treatment are available.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
