From the Guidelines
The very young, the very old, and people with impaired temperature perception, regulation, and ability to communicate are at increased risk of hypothermia, as stated in the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1.
Risk Factors for Hypothermia
The following groups are at a higher risk of developing hypothermia:
- The elderly
- Very young children
- People with impaired temperature perception, regulation, and ability to communicate
- Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease, which can impair thermoregulation
- Those taking medications like sedatives, antipsychotics, or beta-blockers, which can affect thermoregulation
- Outdoor enthusiasts exposed to cold weather, especially in wet or windy conditions
- Homeless individuals without adequate shelter
- People who consume alcohol or drugs that impair judgment, making them less likely to recognize early symptoms of hypothermia
- Those who fall into cold water, as they are at immediate risk due to rapid heat loss
Importance of Preventing Hypothermia
Hypothermia can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. It is essential to take preventive measures, such as removing wet clothing, increasing ambient temperature, and using warm fluid therapy or extracorporeal re-warming devices, to reduce the risk of hypothermia and hypothermia-induced coagulopathy 1.
Key Considerations
- Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the core temperature to drop below 95°F (35°C) 1.
- The condition requires immediate medical attention, as it can lead to organ failure and death if untreated.
- Preventive measures and early recognition of hypothermia are crucial in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
From the Research
Individuals at Risk for Hypothermia
The following individuals are at risk for hypothermia:
- Individuals at extremes of age, such as the elderly and infants 2, 3, 4
- Those with certain underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus 4
- Patients with malnutrition 4
- Those taking certain drugs or with alcohol or drug intoxication 5
- People with reduced ability to sense and react to cold 3
Specific Factors Increasing Risk
Specific factors that increase the risk of hypothermia include:
- Underlying pathologic conditions 5
- Prolonged exposure to cold environment 5
- Advanced age 3, 4
- Reduced cardiac output and decreased arterial pressure 5
Mortality Rates
Hypothermia is associated with high mortality rates, with approximately 20,000 hypothermia-related deaths per year in Britain, 25,000 in the USA, and 8,000 in Canada 5. The elderly are particularly at risk, with suggestions that the unofficial number of hypothermia-related deaths is substantially higher in this population 5.