$Unique_ID{BRK01562}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Causes of "Hypothermia" and "Frost Bite"}
$Subject{cold frost hypothermia}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Causes of "Hypothermia" and "Frost Bite"


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QUESTION:  I think I am confused about two terms and would like you to
straighten them out for me.  I am concerned about "hypothermia" and realize it
is not the same as "frost bite" but just what is it?  Can you explain a bit
about its causes and the correct way to treat it?  As you see we live in a
part of the country where this is important information for us to have.

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ANSWER:  Simply stated, frost bite is a condition where certain tissues of the
body freeze, while in hypothermia the whole body becomes too cold to function
properly.  Hypothermia occurs when the heat loss of the body exceeds its
ability to produce heat, and the core or central temperature of the body drops
below 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit).  At this level, the
chemistry of the body becomes altered, respiratory centers of the brain are
effected, heart rate is affected as is the blood.  The heat of the body comes
from the metabolism of food and water, and may be lost by four mechanisms;
radiation, conduction, convection and evaporation.  About 50 percent of the
body's total heat production can be lost by radiation through an unprotected
and uncovered head.  The amount lost by convection (loss of heat through
movement of the air) increases with the speed of the wind, and loss through
evaporation, normally through sweat and breathing, is greatly increased when
the skin becomes wet.  So the outside temperature, and wind chill factors
greatly influence heat loss.  So do certain drugs; nicotine, alcohol,
barbiturates, opiates, and certain antidepressants.  Senior citizens and small
children are also at increased risks because of the workings of their heat
regulation systems.  In the early stages of hypothermia, or when it is
considered mild (core temperature between 32 and 35 degrees C.) the body may
try to raise its temperature by shivering.  These rapid muscular contractions
may increase heat production up to five times normal.  In this stage, moving
the patient to a warm and sheltered environment, the use of heated blankets,
warm, sweet, beverages are useful and appropriate.  However, hospitalization
is required for severe hypothermia (core temperature below 32 degrees C. where
more aggressive means of treatment are available.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
