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Hypothermia

Definition:

Hypothermia is dangerously low body temperature, below 95°F (35°C).



Alternative Names:

Low body temperature; Cold exposure



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.


References:

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th Ed. St. Louis, Mo.: London: Mosby; 2002:1979-1996.

Auerbach PS. Wilderness Medicine. 4th Ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 2001.

Ford, MD, ed. Clinical Toxicology. 1st Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2001:244-247.




Review Date: 4/8/2005
Reviewed By: William D. Whetstone M.D., Division of Emergency Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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