There is a risk of hypothermia in winter, how to avoid it?

 There is a risk of hypothermia in winter, how to avoid it?

Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35 degrees Celsius and it affects the brain, heart and other organs.

Cold weather, exposure to air or water, alcohol consumption, malnutrition, dehydration and elderly people are at high risk of hypothermia.

Winter is increasing. As winter increases, so does the risk of cold-related diseases. Therefore, for this, it is necessary to avoid the cold. One of the health problems that can bother you in cold weather is hypothermia.

This condition occurs when the body temperature drops abnormally below 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). It seriously affects the brain, heart and other organs and if not treated in time, there is a risk of heart failure or death.

Those who work outside, travel or do not have a heating system at home should be especially careful.

How does it happen?

The part of the brain called the hypothalamus plays a role in balancing the body's temperature. But in some special cases, the body cannot maintain a balance in temperature and the temperature decreases and goes towards a state of hypothermia. A body temperature of less than 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) is considered to be hypothermia.

Stages of hypothermia

Hypothermia is divided into three parts based on severity. Mild hypothermia is from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. In this, the body tries to produce heat on its own and shivering increases.

Moderate hypothermia is from 28 to 32 degrees Celsius. In this, shivering stops and consciousness begins to decrease. Severe hypothermia reaches a temperature below 28 degrees Celsius. In this stage, the heartbeat becomes irregular and there is a state of unconsciousness.

A temperature of 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit is called mild hypothermia, while 82 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit is considered moderate, and a temperature below 82 is considered severe hypothermia.

Why does it happen?

The body loses heat quickly when exposed to cold weather, air, or water. In fact, about 90 percent of the body's heat is lost through the skin and the rest is lost through breathing. This process is accelerated when exposed to cold air or humidity. If a person is exposed to cold water, they lose heat about 25 times faster than in air.

Other causes of rapid body temperature loss include alcohol consumption (which causes blood vessels to dilate, which increases heat loss), malnutrition, dehydration, diseases such as hypothyroidism, etc. Similarly, the effects of medications or drugs, old age, or newborns can weaken their ability to regulate their temperature.

Symptoms of hypothermia appear gradually.

Mild stage

- Initially, there is intense shivering.

- Body hair stands on end.

- Skin becomes cold and pale.

- Hands and feet may swell.

- Heart rate and breathing become faster.

Moderate stage

- Shivering stops in moderate stages.

– Difficulty speaking.

– Confusion increases.

– Declining judgment.

– Muscle stiffness.

In severe cases

– In severe cases, the person becomes unconscious.

– Breathing and heart rate become very slow.

– Pulse rate is weak or not detectable.

– Heart rhythm disturbances and the risk of cardiac arrest increase.

– In newborns, the main symptoms are abnormally red or cold skin and reduced crying. When body temperature drops by 1 degree, brain function decreases by 6-7 percent.

Who is at risk?

Some people and groups are at high risk of hypothermia. Newborns and young children have an immature heat regulation system. Seniors have a reduced ability to adapt. People with mental health problems or those who cannot take care of themselves are at greater risk.

People who use alcohol or drugs lose heat quickly because their blood vessels dilate. Homeless people and those living on the streets are affected by a lack of adequate clothing and shelter. This problem is seen in people working in mountainous areas or mountaineering when they are suddenly exposed to cold.

This problem occurs when they are immersed in cold water. People who are malnourished, dehydrated, or have chronic illnesses (such as hypothyroidism or diabetes) are also at risk.

Treatment

If hypothermia is suspected, immediate first aid is necessary. Remove the person from the cold, remove cold clothing and cover them with dry, warm clothing, warm the chest, neck, and head first, and give them a warm drink if they are not unconscious. However, do not rub or massage the hands or feet because there is a risk of cold blood flowing to the core.

If the tremors stop, consciousness decreases, or breathing slows down, you should immediately take them to the hospital. Hot oxygen or special rewarming methods are used in the hospital. In serious cases, CPR is continued even if the heart stops. Because the chances of survival in the cold are high.

Prevention

Easy and effective measures can be taken to prevent hypothermia. In cold weather, it is best to wear layers. The inner layer absorbs sweat. The middle layer retains heat. The outer layer blocks wind and water.

Similarly, wearing a hat is a must. Because half of the heat is lost through the head. Gloves, socks, and scarves should be used. Cold clothes should be changed immediately. The house or place of residence should be kept warm. Eat warm and nutritious food. Carbohydrate and fatty foods give the body energy.

Drink plenty of water because dehydration increases the risk. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine. Check the weather forecast when going out and prepare accordingly. It is very cold When traveling in the mountains, you should never go alone.