SIGNS OF HYPOTHERMIA: With an extremely cold weather week ahead of McKean County residents, with temperatures often falling below 0 degrees, it is important to know the signs of hypothermia.

Do you know the signs of hypothermia? According to the Mayo Clinic, hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F. Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature falls below 95 F.

When body temperature drops, the heart, nervous system, and other organs can’t work normally. Left untreated, hypothermia can eventually lead to complete failure of the heart and respiratory system and eventually death.

Hypothermia is often caused by exposure to cold weather or immersion in cold water. Primary treatments for hypothermia are methods to warm the body back to a normal temperature.

Shivering is likely the first thing an individual will notice as the temperature starts to drop because it’s the body’s automatic defense against cold temperatures.

Beyond the initial symptom of shivering, the signs and symptoms of hypothermia include:

slurred speech or mumbling; slow, shallow breathing; weak pulse; clumsiness or lack of coordination; drowsiness or very low energy; confusion or memory loss; loss of consciousness; and bright red, cold skin.

Someone with hypothermia usually isn’t aware of his or her condition because the symptoms often begin gradually. Also, the confused thinking associated with hypothermia prevents self-awareness. Confused thinking can also lead to risk-taking behavior.

If a person is suspected of suffering from hypothermia, call 911 immediately. While waiting, gently move the person inside if possible. Carefully remove wet clothing, replacing it with warm, dry coats or blankets.