Patient Education: Diseases Conditions Treatments & Procedures

Hypothermia

Introduction

Hypothermia occurs when more heat escapes from your body than your body can produce. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia may include gradual loss of mental and physical abilities. Severe hypothermia can lead to death. Prolonged exposure to cold air or cold water temperatures are common causes. Some signs and symptoms of hypothermia are shivering, disorientation, lack of coordination, cold and pale skin, fatigue, and slurring speech.