Hypothermia - Overview
Alternative Names
Low body temperature; Cold exposure
Definition of Hypothermia:
Hypothermia is dangerously low body temperature, below 95°F (35°C).
Considerations:
People most likely to experience hypothermia include:
- Very old or very young
- Chronically ill, especially with heart or circulation problems
- Malnourished
- Overly tired
- Under the influence of alcohol or 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 winter.
- Falling overboard from a boat into cold water.
- Wearing wet clothing in windy or cold weather.
- Heavy exertion, not drinking enough fluids, or not eating enough in cold weather.
- Reviewed last on: 6/9/2008
- John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
References
Danzl DF. Accidental hypothermia. In: Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo: London: Mosby; 2006: chap. 138.
