Hypothermia in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

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

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

Most healthy children who have mild to moderate hypothermia recover fully and have no lasting problems. Babies may be more at risk for hypothermia than older children. This is because babies' bodies do not control temperature as well.

Follow your doctor's instructions for helping your child get better. And learn how to prevent hypothermia in the future.

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

How can you care for your child at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Give your child medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with the medicine.
• To prevent dehydration, have your child drink plenty of fluids. If your child has to limit fluids because of a health problem, talk with your doctor before you increase how much your child drinks.
• Make sure your child has high-calorie food and drinks until your child feels better.
• Make sure your child gets plenty of rest at home. Keep your child warm.

• Try to avoid taking your child outside in very cold weather.
• Cover your child's head, hands, and feet whenever your child might be in cold or wet weather.
• Have your child wear layers of loose clothing.
• Keep your child as dry as you can, even if they are doing something that makes them sweat in cold weather.
• Keep an emergency outdoor kit ready to use. It will have items you and your child need to stay warm. It may include fire-starting kits, a lighter, emergency blankets, heat packs, and extra clothing. You also may want to include drinking water and food. You can also use a sleeping bag. You and your child 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:

• Your child has trouble breathing.
• Your child is confused or has trouble thinking.
• Your child is shivering and can't stop.
• Your child stops shivering because of low body temperature.
• Your child has symptoms of dehydration, such as:
  • Dry eyes and a dry mouth.
  • Passing only a little urine.
  • Feeling thirstier than usual.

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

• Your child does not get better as expected.