What are the symptoms of hypothermia?

Symptoms of mild hypothermia include:

• Shivering

• Loss of coordination

• Confusion, irrational behavior

• Urge to urinate

Symptoms of severe hypothermia include:

• No longer shivering, muscles stiff and rigid

• Stumbling

• Slow breathing

• Low blood pressure, weak pulse

• Slow, irregular heartbeat

Signs of hypothermia include the following:

• Shivering
• Numbness
• Glassy stare
• Indifference
• Loss of consciousness

Shivering that stops without rewarming is a sign that the person’s condition is worsening. He or she needs immediate medical care.

People with hypothermia generally do not realize they are experiencing it. They will usually be shivering with clumsiness or lack of coordination and exhibit slurred speech or mumbling. They will also have confusion or difficulty thinking and drowsiness. The skin may look pale and even purple or blue. Often those with hypothermia appear intoxicated. If the body continues to lose heat, they can lose consciousness.

(This answer provided for NATA by the Marist College Athletic Training Education Program.)

Most cases of hypothermia develop gradually, and people are not always aware that they may need medical help. However, some cases of hypothermia may develop within minutes. The severity of hypothermia increases as the body temperature decreases.

Common symptoms of hypothermia include uncontrolled shivering, fatigue or exhaustion, slurred speech, disorientation, slowed breathing, cold and pale skin, and loss of muscle coordination. Individuals who experience any of these symptoms should move indoors as soon as possible and seek immediate medical treatment.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

A person suffering from frostbite is also a candidate for hypothermia. Check for signs of hypothermia: slurred speech, apathy, clumsiness, cold abdomen, impaired judgment and drowsiness. If any of these symptoms are present, treat for hypothermia first and then treat for frostbite.

Mild or Moderate Hypothermia

• Get out of the cold and wind.
• Get into dry, warm clothing. Make sure your head is covered.
• Remove your feet from the cold ground.
• Warm yourself by wrapping up in a blanket or sleeping bag.
• Drink nonalcoholic, warm liquids. If you are treating another person and he or she is unconscious or vomiting, do not give him or her beverages to drink.

Severe Hypothermia

If the person you are treating is not improving and professional help is not available, place him or her in a warm bath, 100°F to 105°F (37.8°C to 40.5°C), for 20 to 40 minutes.

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