Definition of Hypothermia
The hypothermia is the medical phenomenon that occurs when the body temperature drops and is at values below the normal . It is an involuntary fall below 35oC .
The mild hypothermia occurs when the temperature of the body is between 35º and 33º C . In this case, the person feels confused, can not perform fluid or coordinated movements and suffers tremors.
When the temperature is between 33º and 30º C , there is talk of moderate hypothermia . In addition to the symptoms already mentioned, the subject loses his memory and is almost unconscious.
If the temperature drops further and the thermometer shows less than 30 ° C in the body, the individual experiences severe hypothermia . With this picture, the heartbeat is very weak, blood pressure drops and there is no consciousness . The subject affected by hypothermia, in this setting, is at serious risk of dying.
In general, hypothermia occurs when the human being is in an extremely cold environment . To avoid it, you have to dress in warm clothes; especially protect the head, heart, feet, hands, ears and nose; eat caloric foods; maintain hydration; No Smoking; and avoid alcohol consumption.
In the absence of food and shelter, indigent people who are in a street situation are prone to suffer from hypothermia. That is why it is very important to provide assistance during the winter.
To treat hypothermia and reverse it, you have to move the person to a warm and closed environment . If that is not possible, it is important to cover it with blankets to isolate it from the cold ground and protect your neck and head to retain body heat.
The application of warm compresses on the thorax, groin and neck also helps, but sudden movements and friction should be avoided because heat can be directed from the center of the body to the muscles, a counterproductive situation.
