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Hypothermia

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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: 1/16/2007
• Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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