Definition/Introduction Synonym: Hypothermia Hypothermia can affect individual body regions as well as the entire body. Exposed parts of the body, such as hands, feet, ears and the nose (acra) are particularly at risk of hypothermia. If the entire body cools down, one speaks of hypothermia from a core body temperature below 36°C. Permanent hypothermia can … Hypothermia
Risk factors Particularly at risk of suffering hypothermia are Old and sick people (especially dementia patients) Miners and divers Homeless Under- or malnourished persons Alcoholized persons People with thermoregulation disorders Diabetics and thyroid gland patients, because their temperature sensation is disturbed Newborn babies Symptoms and stages The symptoms of hypothermia depend on the extent of … Risk factors | Hypothermia
Diagnostics Hypothermia is mainly diagnosed by the rectally measured body core temperature. This requires special thermometers that can also record low temperatures. A measurement under the tongue is also possible, but the measured values are 0.3 – 0.5°C below the rectal temperature. The frequently used temperature measurement in the ear is not possible in hypothermic … Diagnostics | Hypothermia
Prognosis In many cases, little to no damage remains after hypothermia if the therapy could be started in time. The longer the hypothermia has lasted, the more probable are long-term consequences such as irreversible frostbite, nerve damage or movement restrictions. If cardiac arrhythmia has occurred, permanent damage to the heart action can also occur. Therapeutic … Prognosis | Hypothermia