When exposed to cold temperatures, especially with a high wind
chill factor and high humidity, or to a cool, damp environment
for prolonged periods, your body's control mechanisms may fail
to keep your body temperature normal. When more heat is lost
than your body can generate, hypothermia, defined as an internal
body temperature less than 95 F (35 C), can result. Wet or
inadequate clothing, falling into cold water and even not
covering your head during cold weather can increase your chances
of hypothermia. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include: -
Slurred speech - Abnormally slow breathing - Cold, pale skin -
Loss of coordination - Fatigue, lethargy or apathy - Confusion
or memory loss - Bright red, cold skin (infants) Signs and
symptoms usually develop slowly. People with hypothermia
typically experience gradual loss of mental acuity and physical
ability, so they may be unaware that they need emergency medical
treatment. Older adults, infants, young children and people who
are very lean are at particular