Hypothermia: Care Instructions

Overview

Hypothermia (low body temperature) occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can make heat. You can get it if you spend time in cold air, water, wind, or rain.

For most people, a normal body temperature is about 98.6°F (37°C). A body temperature below 95°F (35°C) can be a sign of hypothermia.

Hypothermia is an emergency that needs medical care right away to prevent more serious problems. If heat loss continues, you can quickly pass out.

Most healthy people who have mild to moderate hypothermia fully recover and have no lasting problems. Babies and older adults or adults with health conditions may be more at risk for hypothermia. This is because their bodies do not control temperature as well.

Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions for how to get better. And learn how to prevent hypothermia in the future.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of fluids. Choose water and clear warm liquids until you feel better. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• Be sure to have high-calorie food and drinks until you feel better.
• Get a lot of rest at home, and stay warm.

• Try to avoid very cold weather.
• Cover your head, hands, and feet in cold or wet weather.
• Wear layers of loose-fitting clothing.
• Stay as dry as possible, even if you are doing something that makes you sweat in cold weather.
• Substance use and too much alcohol can make you more likely to get hypothermia.
• Keep an emergency outdoor kit ready to use. It will have items you need to stay warm. It may include fire-starting kits and a lighter, an emergency blanket, warming pads or heat packs, extra clothing, drinking water, and food. You can also use a sleeping bag. Two people can warm up more easily by sharing the bag.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have trouble breathing.
• You are confused or have trouble thinking.
• You are shivering and cannot stop.
• You stop shivering because of low body temperature.
• You are feeling clumsy and not able to complete simple tasks.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.