Prevent Cold Injury and Hypothermia
Given that the winter of 2011 has been very cold, much colder than recent winters, knowing how to prevent cold injury or hypothermia is worth your while.
Cold injuries can occur whenever air temperature is below freezing (32 degrees F). Freezing of the skin surface is called ‘frost nip‘. When freezing extends deeper though the skin and flesh, the injury is called ‘frostbite‘.
Hypothermia is a life threatening condition in which deep-body temperature falls below 95°F. Body temperature falls when the body cannot produce heat as fast as it is being lost.
When temperatures plummet below 0 degrees (F), the danger and risk of getting frost nip, frostbite, or hypothermia becomes much greater – because it can come on much faster. 0 degrees (F) isn’t necessarily a critical tipping point temperature, but it is a psychological tipping point where the readings become ‘negative’ numbers – calling attention to itself.
Those that have experienced very cold and negative-number temperatures know the noticeable changes that can occur. At some point you actually begin feeling pain when breathing in very cold air too rapidly, for example. You can feel the inside of your nose freezing and your extremities (fingers and toes) can easily and quickly numb.
At extra high risk in these very cold conditions are children, who really don’t know any better, and simply want to stay out and play in the snow.
When it’s really cold outside, extra precautions become extra important!
Heat loss through the head
At rest, the body core loses about 7 percent of its heat through the head
When exercising, the head will lose more body heat which can ramp up to 50 percent heat loss, but the heat loss percentage will then diminish when you start to sweat and when your muscles start demanding more blood flow.
When in hypothermia however (shivering), core body heat loss through the head increases to as much as 55 percent and remains at this high level.
Cold Injury and Hypothermia Prevention Tips
Stay hydrated. A dehydrated body will slow blood circulation.
Avoid smoking – nicotine will constrict the blood vessels.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine which can lead to dehydration.
If cold, it is better to be active than to huddle up.
Heat production is increased by physical activity, but avoid sweating.
Don’t skip meals which will lead to slower metabolism and blood flow.
Wear the right clothes the right way.
Too much clothing can cause overheating and dehydration.
Avoid tight fitting clothing.
Clothes should be worn loose and in layers.
Clothing should be made of material that water vapor can pass through.
Avoid 100 percent cotton. Use synthetic fabrics for moisture-wicking.
Use water and wind resistant outerwear. Nylon, Gore-Tex.
Socks should be changed frequently.
Keep hands well protected. Mittens are better than gloves.
Cover your head.
Stay Dry. Stay Dry. Stay Dry.
A very lean person is more susceptible to cold (fat is an insulator).
Self Check
Pinch your fingernail to watch how fast the blood returns to your finger.
Avoid being alone in the very cold. Buddy system.
