Protect Yourself from the Cold: Heartworks CPR Offers Tips on Avoiding and Treating Hypothermia

Protect Yourself from the Cold: Heartworks CPR Offers Tips on Avoiding and Treating Hypothermia

Chicago's winters can be a particularly dangerous time for those spending prolonged periods outdoors.  Hypothermia, an abnormally low body temperature (usually defined as 95° or cooler), can cause breathing difficulties, a gradual loss of mental and physical abilities, and in some cases death.

Heartworks CPR, a local leader in CPR and first-aid training, warns that Hypothermia can be particularly dangerous for the very young and very old, lean people and those with a mental impairment such as Alzheimer's disease.

"Hypothermia can appear to come on quick quickly when in fact in most cases can take several hours," said Cindy Zaban, of Heartworks CPR.  "It's really important to know the beginning signs of hypothermia and take the steps to bring the body temperature back up to normal."

Vicki Dank, also of Heartworks CPR, explained, "Hypothermia usually starts with a lack of coordination.  The skin may become cold and pale, and shivering could be intense."   She added that as the body temperature begins to fall, speech may become slurred, muscles can stiffen, and the patient may become disoriented.  

If you suspect someone is suffering from hypothermia, Heartworks CPR suggests:

• Move the person out of the cold.  If going inside isn't an option, try to find an outdoor location protected from the wind.  
• As heat escapes quickest from one's head, make sure the head is well covered.
• Remove any wet clothing and cover with dry, warm clothing and blankets.
• If breathing appears to be dangerously slow or stops completely, begin CPR immediately and call 911.

Zaban added that there are also some measures to avoid, including:

• Don't apply direct heat - instead apply warm compresses to the neck, chest and groin.  
• Don't apply warm compresses to the extremities.  Heat applied to arms and legs forces cold blood back toward the heart, lungs and brain.
• Don't give the person alcohol - if the person is not vomiting, offer them warm non-alcoholic liquids such as tea, milk and cocoa.
• Don't rub or massage the patient - it can result in cardiac arrest.

To protect yourself against the dangers of hypothermia, Heartworks CPR recommends:

• Limiting your time in the cold.  If participating in an outdoor sport such as skiing, sledding or ice skating, make frequent visits to a warming house or lodge.
• Dressing for the weather - wearing hats that cover your ears, water proof gloves or mittens, insulated boots, a scarf to protect your face, and a water proof coat.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages while outdoors as they slow down the senses.