We in Connecticut have enjoyed unusually warm temperatures during the past month of December. But we should keep in mind that Mother Nature has a history of balancing things out over time, and we should expect that the very cold weather associated with winter in New England is likely to occur during the next couple of months. And below freezing temperatures create additional health risks. The two most dangerous cold weather injuries are hypothermia and frostbite.
Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature drops to a dangerously low level. It can be the result of prolonged exposure to cold temperatures outdoors, being immersed in a cold body of water, or even living in inadequately heated quarters. This last condition, also known as accidental hypothermia, is of particular concern for people at risk who are exposed to temperatures below 65oF. for extended periods of time without adequate protection. People at risk for developing this type of hypothermia include the elderly, infants, and those with certain medical conditions.
Because it can be a life-threatening condition and so many factors can contribute to the development of hypothermia, residents should know and recognize its symptoms, how to prevent it, and how to respond when hypothermia is suspected. Symptoms include sleepiness, glassy eyes, slow breathing, listlessness, confusion, slurred speech, slow pulse rate, paleness and rigid muscles. Violent shivering may occur in the early stages, and then disappear later. As the condition progresses, unconsciousness, convulsions, or paralysis may occur. Although most of us associate shivering with being cold, hypothermia inhibits the ability to shiver; in fact, people suffering from hypothermia may not even be aware that they are cold. Left untreated, hypothermia can lead to cardiac arrest and death.
If hypothermia is suspected, immediate medical attention is required. While awaiting the arrival of medical assistance, bystanders can help by covering the person with blankets. Those who want to assist should avoid the temptation to rub the arms, hands, legs, or feet, because heating the extremities first can draw circulation away from the body’s core and lead to heart problems.
As is always the case, preventing the occurrence of hypothermia is better than having to treat the condition. A few simple precautions should be taken by anyone at risk, whether the cold exposure is likely to occur indoors or outdoors:
--Dress warmly and in layers. Layers provide extra insulation by warming
the trapped air between the clothes.
--Cover your hands, feet, and head, even when going to bed. Up to 50%
of the body’s heat is lost through the head.
--Avoid wearing tight clothing and shoes to permit proper circulation of
the blood.
-- Avoid the use of alcohol and tobacco as they can interfere with blood
circulation.
-- Be active. Move around periodically to increase circulation.
-- Eat warm, well-balanced meals and drink warm liquids.
--When indoors, set the thermostat at 65 0 F. or higher; people
with certain medical conditions that cause them to lead more
sedentary lives may require settings of at least 68-70oF. or
higher.
The second dangerous cold weather condition is frostbite. This is a local freezing injury in which the tissue is frozen, diminishing the blood supply to the area, dehydrating the tissue cells, and causing blood clots. The symptoms of frostbite include pain, burning, numbness, and/or tingling. The skin may turn hard and white, it may itch, and blisters may develop or peeling occur. The skin may also become firm, shiny, and turn grayish-yellow. The most common areas that are likely to be affected are the ears, nose, fingers, and toes.
Frostbite is classified by degree. Frostnip is the first stage, affecting only the outer layer of skin and easily treated with immediate re-warming. Superficial frostbite injures a partial thickness of the skin, similar to a 2nd degree burn. Underlying tissues are affected and blisters usually appear. Deep frostbite is the most serious, involving the skin and the underlying tissue and muscles.
Serious cases of frostbite require medical attention. Bystanders can help while awaiting medical assistance by getting the affected person to a warm, dry location and removing constrictive clothing. Affected areas should be elevated, and warm, moist compresses should be applied. Do not rub frostbitten areas or apply direct heat.
Prevention of frostbite involves employing the measures mentioned above for the prevention of hypothermia. Additionally, wearing insulated gloves and socks as well as scarves and face masks can be helpful. Do not wear tight, constrictive clothing and footwear. It is also important to avoid wearing wet clothing or shoes. Staying hydrated is also important to blood circulation
Remember, injuries from cold exposure can be prevented by
dressing appropriately for conditions, eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding
the use of alcohol and tobacco, and drinking plenty of fluids. Pay attention to weather conditions,
including temperature, wind chill, and precipitation. If anyone has any questions about cold weather injuries, they can
contact the Central Connecticut Health District at 721-2822 to obtain a
brochure about hypothermia or further information.