Hypothermia: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Awareness

Hypothermia is a cold-related medical condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. When body temperature drops to 35°C (95°F) or lower, vital body systems begin to slow down. Normal body temperature is approximately 37°C (98.6°F).

Hypothermia often develops gradually, which means individuals may not recognize the danger until symptoms become serious. As body temperature falls, thinking and coordination are affected, increasing the risk of injury and delaying help-seeking. Hypothermia may also occur alongside frostbite, a cold injury that damages skin and underlying tissues.

First Aid & Workplace Relevance (Canada)

Hypothermia is a significant concern in Canadian workplaces and outdoor environments, particularly in construction, transportation, utilities, emergency response, recreation, and remote or winter-based work settings. It can also occur during everyday activities such as walking, commuting, or recreation in cold weather.

First aid awareness helps workers and the public recognize early warning signs, reduce heat loss, and understand when emergency care is required.

Scenario: Early Action in Cold Conditions

During a winter work shift, a utility worker became increasingly clumsy and confused after being exposed to cold wind and wet conditions. A coworker trained in first aid noticed the behaviour change and took steps to shelter the worker, remove wet clothing, and call for emergency assistance. Early recognition helped prevent further heat loss while awaiting professional care.

What Causes Hypothermia?

Hypothermia occurs when heat loss exceeds heat production. Common causes include:

Prolonged exposure to cold outdoor temperatures
Inadequate or wet clothing in cold or windy weather
Falling into cold water, such as lakes or rivers
Remaining wet for extended periods
Heavy physical exertion in cold environments
Not eating enough food or drinking enough fluids in cold conditions
Sleeping in a cold indoor environment (especially infants)

Wind, moisture, and fatigue can significantly increase heat loss.

Risk Factors for Hypothermia

While anyone can develop hypothermia, certain factors increase risk:

Infants and older adults
Individuals who are malnourished or dehydrated
Extreme fatigue
Chronic health conditions, especially those affecting the heart or circulation
Certain prescription medications
Alcohol or drug use, which interferes with temperature regulation and judgment

Signs and Symptoms of Hypothermia

Symptoms often develop slowly and may include:

Uncontrollable shivering (shivering may stop in severe cases)
Cold, pale skin
Weakness or fatigue
Clumsiness or poor coordination
Slurred speech
Confusion or altered thinking
Drowsiness or difficulty staying awake
Slow breathing or heart rate

As hypothermia worsens, the risk of serious complications increases.

First Aid Awareness for Hypothermia

From a first aid education perspective, the priority is to reduce further heat loss and arrange emergency care.

General first aid awareness principles include:

Call emergency services immediately if hypothermia is suspected
Move the person to a sheltered, warmer environment if possible
Protect the person from wind, rain, or snow
Replace wet clothing with dry clothing or coverings
Insulate the person with blankets, coats, or other dry materials
Cover the head and neck to help retain body heat
Use body-to-body warmth if appropriate and safe
Apply warm compresses to the torso (neck, chest, groin)
If the person is alert and able to swallow, offer a warm, sweet, non-alcoholic drink

The person should not be left alone while awaiting emergency responders.

Important Safety Considerations

Avoid rough handling, which can trigger heart rhythm disturbances
Do not give alcohol
Do not attempt rapid rewarming with hot baths or direct heat sources
Monitor breathing and responsiveness until help arrives

First aid training focuses on supportive care until professional treatment is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hypothermia only caused by extreme cold?

No. Wind, wet clothing, fatigue, and inadequate nutrition can lead to hypothermia even in milder temperatures.

Can hypothermia affect thinking?

Yes. Confusion and poor judgment are common, which is why people may not realize they are in danger.

Is shivering always present?

Shivering is common early on but may stop in severe hypothermia, which is a dangerous sign.

Can hypothermia happen indoors?

Yes. Infants, older adults, or ill individuals can develop hypothermia indoors if the environment is cold.

When should emergency services be called?

Any suspected hypothermia should be treated as a medical emergency.

Educational Note

This article is intended for general public education and first aid awareness. It does not replace professional medical care. First aid training emphasizes recognizing hypothermia early, preventing further heat loss, and accessing emergency medical support.