Hypothermia

Alternative names:

cold exposure; low body temperature

Symptoms:

The onset of symptoms is usually slow; there is likely to be a gradual loss of mental acuity and physical ability. The person experiencing hypothermia, in fact, may be unaware that he or she is in a state that requires emergency medical treatment.

Symptoms include:

• apathy or lethargy
• confusion
• drowsiness
• loss of coordination
• pale and cold skin
• shock
• slowing of breathing
• slurred speech
• uncontrollable shivering
• weakness