Coping With Winter Cold

Our winters are generally mild but that can change and the temperature can drop quickly. Cold weather can lead to hypothermia which can be a serious problem for the very old and very young.

Hypothermia is the lowering of the body temperature. If the body temperature goes below 95 degrees F a person can be in real danger. The elderly and infants are at greater risk for hypothermia since their bodies are much less able to adapt to temperature changes.

Chronic arthritis and other connective tissue diseases affect the heat regulating processes of the body. People with these conditions need to be particularly cautious about staying warm. People who have suffered a stroke or paralysis need to be aware of possible problems with hypothermia. Some prescribed and over-the-counter medications act as depressants on the central nervous system. Medications combined with decreased body temperature can cause problems.

Signs of hypothermia include:

• Irregular and slowed heartbeat; slurred speech; shallow, very slow breathing.
• Bloated face; pale and waxy skin color, at other times oddly pink.
• Trembling on one side of the body or in one arm or leg, but no shivering.
• Low body temperature (95 degrees F or lower).
• Drowsiness, perhaps lapsing into a coma. A coma is probable with a body temperature of 90 degrees F and under.

When the temperature drops, protect yourself and your loved ones against hypothermia.

• Wear warm, loose-fitting clothing. Several layers are better than one. Wear warm socks and shoes or thermal-style slippers with non-skid soles.
• Wear hats inside and even night caps and socks to bed to help hold in body heat.
• For outdoor wear, wear hats that cover the ears, scarves for further protection and mittens rather than gloves (fingers help to warm each other).
• Keep indoor room temperatures between 70 degrees and 75 degrees F. If rooms have individual thermostat controls or heating outlets, then use these to keep the rooms you are in warm. Heat only the rooms you are occupying.
• Place a rug or rolled up towel at the bottom of doors to reduce drafts.
• Motion helps to increase body heat. Walking and simple exercises can do much to build muscle and preserve muscle tone and general well-being.
• Avoid the use of alcoholic beverages. They can cause the body to lose heat at a faster rate. Alcohol may make you feel warmer, but it does not warm the body.

*Source: Penn State University