Hypothermia
Many people believe that hypothermia can only happen in the dead of winter, when temperatures are below freezing, and while that is the most common environment, it can actually occur anytime a person’s body is losing more heat than it is generating. Anyone who is not wearing enough warm clothes outside could begin to suffer from hypothermia. A good example of a non-winter case of hypothermia is when a lightly dressed hiker gets caught in a cool, windy rain shower, or when a swimmer is in cold water for any amount of time. They each could be at risk of hypothermia.
While most people believe that dehydration is a cause for concern only in the summertime, it is actually a common component of hypothermia. Staying proper hydrated is important not only during desert hikes, but for winter hikes as well. Proper hydration allows the body to regulate temperature more effectively. Bottom line is, drink plenty of water regardless of the environment.
Here are some symptoms of hypothermia:
– shivering uncontrollably
– clumsiness
– lack of coordination
– slurred speech/incoherent speech
– stumbling when walking
– confusion or difficulty thinking
– poor decision making
– irritable
– drowsiness or very low energy
– slow, shallow breathing
Recognizing these signs as early as possible will prevent hypothermia from becoming an advanced case. If you find that you or someone in your group is suffering from hypothermia take quick action to reverse the symptoms by preventing the person from getting any colder. If possible and nearby, get the individual into a car, tent, or structure that can be heated and protected from outdoor elements like wind or rain. Get the individual into dry, warm clothes. If possible, get the person in a sleeping bag, and cover the head with a warm winter hat and/or jacket hood. If the person is conscious, have them drink warm fluids in small amounts. These steps will all aid in getting the person’s body temperature back to normal.
If you suspect someone in your group may be suffering from hypothermia, have the person walk in a straight line for a distance of 30 feet, heel to toe. If you find that they have trouble with balance, unsteadiness, and/or irritability, get that person warm and dry immediately.
Once the individual has recovered completely and is no longer shivering, I would highly recommend ending the hike and trying again another day, as to not lead to a relapse.
Frostbite
While hypothermia can occur not only in cold weather, but cool weather, frostbite is exclusively associated with prolonged exposure to cold, freezing temperatures, and icy winds found in the winter season. Ears, fingers, toes, and the nose are the most susceptible parts of the body to suffer from frostbite.
It usually starts when an area of the body is not properly covered from the elements of cold, freezing temperatures. Pain in the extremities is normally the first sign, followed by numbness. If you spot grayish-white patches on the skin, that is a sure sign the individual has a case of frostbite.
If you or someone in your group is suffering from frostbite, get them out of the elements, whether in a car, tent, or structure. If it is fingers, for example, put the frostbitten fingers beneath your armpit. This area of the body is one of the warmest parts, and it should quickly warm up the hand. You may also run warm water over the frostbitten part of the body. Don’t ever use hot water to warm the skin of a victim of frostbite, especially since the victim can’t feel the frostbitten part, the hot water could burn them. Also, never rub the skin to get the body part warm, it could damage tissue and skin. Use hands to warm frostbitten ears or nose, and someone’s stomach to warm someone’s feet. Have the individual move the body part around to prevent re-freezing. Get the person to the doctor for additional treatment.
Hypothermia and frostbite can be scary if one is not prepared to recognize the signs and know what to do for each. Now that you are knowledge in the prevention and treatment of hypothermia and frostbite, go out and enjoy those snow covered trails!
