Hypothermia Myths You Need To Know

 

Hypothermia is a medical condition that occurs when a person’s body core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be caused by exposure to water, wind, very cold air, or a combination of these elements.  Hypothermia is one of humanity’s oldest adversaries, which has given us plenty of time to create an abundance of myths and misinformation on the treatment of this dangerous condition.

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Myth 3 – It’s okay to sleep while hypothermic
A few minutes in cold water, or a few hours in the cold wind, can send someone’s body deep into hypothermia. After the shivering, confusion, slurred speech, numbness, and clumsiness have manifested, an exposure victim will also get very tired, sometimes claiming that they just need a little nap. This extreme tiredness is a very serious warning sign. Hypothermia victims often go to sleep just before they die. Keep them awake at all costs, as you warm them up.

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Myth 5 – Never feed a hypothermic person
Normal shock treatment and hypothermia treatment are different, yet often confused for one another. You don’t want to feed someone who may be going into shock because they can vomit and choke while unconscious. However, in mild to moderate hypothermia cases, high-calorie foods can be given in small, repeating doses to create metabolic heat in the victim………..

Related reading You May Find Interesting:

• Myth or Reality – Lets Find Out
• Hydration Myths: Facts You Must Know

 

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Article source: Outdoor Life
Image source: G Captain