Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerously low body temperature. Symptoms of hypothermia can vary depending on the severity but generally include:
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Initial Symptoms (Mild Hypothermia):
- Shivering
- Cold and pale skin
- Fatigue
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Difficulty speaking or slurred speech
- Increased heart rate
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Progressive Symptoms (Moderate to Severe Hypothermia):
- Severe shivering (may stop as hypothermia worsens)
- Weak pulse and slow heart rate
- Loss of coordination and clumsiness
- Confusion, memory loss, or impaired judgment
- Drowsiness or exhaustion
- Slow or shallow breathing
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Critical Symptoms (Severe Hypothermia):
- No shivering
- Weakness or inability to move
- Unconsciousness
- A very low heart rate
- Risk of cardiac arrest
If you suspect someone has hypothermia, it's vital to seek medical help immediately and take steps to gently warm the affected person while minimizing additional heat loss.