Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a life-threatening drop in the body's internal temperature to below 95°F (35°C). this occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can generate it. Although hypothermia is associated usually with prolonged exposure to very cold weather outdoors, most cases actually occur indoors with room temperatures ranging from 50° to 60°F (10° to 15.6°C).

It is estimated that as many as 50,000 elderly Americans are hospitalized every winter for what is presumed to be a stroke or other illness, when they are actually suffering accidental hypothermia. Older people are at special risk because of poor circulation, illnesses, and medication use. In addition, sensitivity to cold decreases with age, as does the ability to shiver, the body's way of quickly generating heat.

Someone afflicted with hypothermia appears to be semiconscious and has uncoordinated movements, slurred speech, confused responses, slow breathing, and a weak pulse. Without treatment, the death rate from this condition is about 50 percent.

Diagnostic Studies and Procedures

Hypothermia can be quickly verified by taking a person's temperature. In the absence of a thermometer, place the back of one hand on the individual's bare abdomen. If the skin feels unusually cold, presume that the person does have hypothermia and either call for an ambulance or take her to the nearest emergency room. While waiting for help begin first aid. When the patient is eventually seen by a doctor, blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs will be quickly evaluated. She will be examined for possible tissue damage, and an electrocardiogram taken. After the patient is stabilized, blood tests may be ordered to check for anemia and other disorders that can contribute to hypothermia.

Medical Treatments

The first priority is to bring body temperature back to normal, then treat frostbite and other underlying or precipitating conditions. Medications, alcohol use, and nutrition are reviewed to make sure they are not contributing factors.

Alternative Therapies

Any alternative approach should be directed to preventing hypothermia. Even people with limited mobility can benefit from therapies that improve circulation and menial outlook.

T'ai Chi. These gentle exercises are usually within the capability of anyone who can walk. They improve coordination, help overcome joint stiffness, and foster an enhanced sense of well-being.

Meditation. The deep breathing used in meditation can help counteract both anxiety and depression, emotional problems that can lead to self-neglect.

Nutrition Therapy. Many older people who live alone have little incentive to prepare balanced meals. They may eat only things such as canned soup, tea, and toast. Programs such as Meals on Wheels, which deliver nutritious meals to the home bound or infirm, can help. The elderly of limited means should use the information and referral services of their local agency for the aged.

Self-Treatment

Older people can limit the risk of hypothermia by taking these precautions:

• If you live alone, arrange to have a neighbor or relative phone or drop by in the morning and evening.
• If you have a live-in health aide, make sure that this person is informed about the potential danger of hypothermia and how to deal with it.
• Don't put your life at risk by economizing on fuel. Set the thermostat at 68°F (20*C) during the day, and no lower than 60°F (15 6°C) at night. If you rent, keep a reliable thermometer in the bedroom and another in a different regularly used room. If the temperature drops below 68°F (20°C), contact the proper authority to complain. If possible, stay with a relative or friend until the situation at home improves.
• Dress in layers, even indoors. If the inside temperature goes down to 50°F (10°C) at night, wear long underwear, socks, and a nightcap and woolen gloves if necessary, place one wool blanket under your body and as many as you need over it.
• When out-of-doors in cold weather, wear waterproof, windproof garments over layered sweaters, fleece-lined rubber boots, wool gloves, and a hat that protects the ears. Stay in the sun as much as possible, and head for warm, dry shelter at the first sign of snow.
• When taking an auto trip in cold weather, keep several blankets in the trunk. Buy a cellular phone for the car in case you become stranded in snow.

Other Causes of Hypothermia

Contributing factors include impaired circulation, prolonged immobility, excessive alcohol consumption, malnutrition, and overuse of tranquilizers, sedatives, and antidepressant drugs.