Hypothermia (1/2)
Although not an altitude illness per se, hypothermia may be the most common problem for the unprepared mountaineer. When exposed to the cold, the first line of defense against a lower body temperature is our behavior. We put on more clothes (gloves, hats, long pants, etc.). if the cold and wind don’t allow clothes to meet the heat loss, we must increase heat production physiologically. We accomplish this though shivering. Unfortunately, shivering will only provide five times more added heat. When heat loss continues, to exceed heat gain, out body temperature will fall and hypothermia will ensue. Symptoms of hypothermia begin with peripheral vascular shutdown or skin vasoconstriction and progress from there.
- The skin becomes pale and cold
- We lose our sense of touch and pain
- Coordination diminishes and fine motor skills become difficult.
- Shivering becomes uncontrollable and exhausting
- Judgment and mental processes become impaired
- Behavior may change. Climbers may become withdrawn and apathetic.
- Walking may become difficult and stiff.
- Shivering may cease and the heart rate slows.
- As body temperature declines to less than 80 degrees Fahrenheit, individuals may lose consciousness, and the heart and respiration may stop.
(Dougherty, Neil J. IV. Mountaineering Safety. Outdoor Recreation Safety.
