Hypothermia
Hypothermia, a serious medical condition, is when the human body’s temperature drops below that necessary for normal functioning, which in humans is 98.6°F. Hypothermia, usually caused by exposure to cold, wet, rain, snow, sleet, wind, and any other severe weather conditions, occurs when the body is unable to sustain and replenish heat which is lost to external surroundings.
Symptoms include violent shivering; numb hands and feet; shallow breathing; lack of coordination and mental confusion; and blue lips, ears, fingers, and toes. In severe hypothermia, the body and organs begin to shut down, leading to death. Treatment is to dry and warm the patient with clothing, blankets, body heat, and warm liquids.
Climbing in cold weather, particularly on high mountains, is dangerous and requires proper clothing, shelter, judgment, and a knowledge of hypothermia’s symptoms and treatment. Wool and synthetic fabrics are superior to cotton for preventing hypothermia since they insulate and wick moisture away from the body. As much as 40% of your body’s heat is lost through your head, making a proper head covering one of the most important clothing items to prevent hypothermia.
