(NIH) – While winter time snow may provide opportunity for outdoor fun, it also may bring about problems such as hypothermia.
Hypothermia is when the body’s core temperature decreases below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and may occur when you’re exposed to very cold temperatures for too long. If your body temperature drops too low, it can affect your ability to think clearly, walk, or talk.
Signs of mild hypothermia include cold feet and hands, shivering, a puffy or swollen face, or pale skin. You may also get sleepy, start to become clumsy, or become angry or confused.
Certain factors increase your risk. Older age, young age, certain medications, and some illnesses all can impact your body’s ability to regulate your temperature. Certain diseases, like diabetes, heart disease, and hypothyroidism can impair your blood circulation. These kinds of diseases become more common with age.
The best way to prevent hypothermia is to protect yourself from the cold—indoors and outdoors. Bundle up if you have to go outside in cold weather. And remember to stay warm indoors and keep your home at a safe temperature.
