Body temperature is often about 98.6°F (37°C). Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below 95°F (35°C). This is from prolonged exposure to cold when you are not able to generate enough body heat to counteract it. Hypothermia can occur rapidly if you are exposed to wind and you have wet skin. It causes cold skin, shivering, and chills. Other symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, and slurred speech. Movements may be slow and uncoordinated. As hypothermia gets worse, muscles stiffen. Heartbeat and breathing rate slow down. You may lose consciousness. Untreated, hypothermia can be fatal.
The goal of treatment is to prevent further heat loss and rewarm your body. If any of your clothing is wet, it is removed. Your head is covered, and you are wrapped in blankets, or a commercial forced-air body warming blanket. You are given heated fluids through an IV line or another method. This helps raise your body temperature quickly. In addition, a mask or nasal tube may be used to supply warmed oxygen to your body. If you’re awake during treatment, you may be given warm liquids to drink. Severe cases of hypothermia need a hospital stay for treatment.
Home care
Once you have returned home:
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Check your temperature for the next few days to make sure it does not fall below normal.
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Continue to drink warm liquids. But stay away from drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol. These substances can make the effects of the cold worse. Also, alcohol can affect your ability to tell if you are getting too cold.
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Wear extra layers of loose-fitting clothing as needed. Use extra blankets or a sleeping bag to keep yourself warm. Make sure your home is heated appropriately.
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Apply a warm compress (heating pad or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel) to body areas for added heat. Use the compress for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
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Stay indoors while you recover. If you have to go outdoors, keep your head and neck covered with a hat and scarf. Wear a coat or jacket that protects against the wind and rain. Also, protect your hands with gloves or mittens and your feet with socks and boots.
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Don't do strenuous activities or exercise until you are fully recovered.
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Follow the tips given by your healthcare provider to prevent hypothermia in the future.
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Contact your provider with any questions or concerns.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider or our staff.
When to get medical advice
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:
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Body temperature below 95°F (35°C)
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Skin that is cold, numb, or tingly
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Skin that is blue, white, grey, or waxy
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Symptoms, such as confusion, memory loss, slurred speech, and slow and uncoordinated body movements again
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Changes in your heartbeat
Call 911
Call
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Chest pain or trouble breathing
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Loss of consciousness
