What does low body temperature indicate?

1. Hypothermia

Low body temperature, or hypothermia, occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Hypothermia can be a medical emergency, so it's important to know the symptoms and how to prevent it.

2. Symptoms of Hypothermia

The symptoms of hypothermia include:

* Shivering

* Feeling very cold

* Slowed breathing and pulse

* Confusion

* Drowsiness

* Loss of coordination

* Loss of consciousness

3. Causes of Hypothermia

Hypothermia can be caused by a number of factors, including:

* Exposure to cold weather, wind, and rain

* Getting wet and not changing clothes

* Drinking alcohol

* Taking certain medications

* Having a medical condition that affects the body's ability to regulate temperature

4. Prevention of Hypothermia

The best way to prevent hypothermia is to stay warm and dry. Here are some tips for staying warm in cold weather:

* Wear warm, layered clothing.

* Cover your head, ears, and hands.

* Stay dry. If you get wet, change your clothes immediately.

* Drink warm fluids.

* Avoid alcohol and caffeine.

* Take breaks from the cold if you have to be outdoors for a long time.

5. If You Think Someone Has Hypothermia

Hypothermia can be a medical emergency. If you think someone has hypothermia, call 911 immediately. While waiting for medical help to arrive, you can do the following:

* Move the person to a warm place.

* Remove wet clothes and replace them with dry clothes.

* Give the person warm fluids to drink.

* Cover the person with blankets.

* Stay with the person until help arrives.