Winter Storm Tips: How to Prevent Hypothermia & Frostbite

Now that we are in the middle of the winter season, some places in the United States are already covered with thick ice. The temperature in some states is dropping significantly low and the risk of frostbite and hypothermia is considerably high.

According to a report by Fox News, the best preventive measure to avoid hypothermia and frostbite is dressing accordingly when going out in a very cold weather. People should dress to stay warm to avoid these medical conditions. They should pay attention to certain parts of the body such as the hands, feet and head. The human body attempts to keep the vital organs warm by pushing blood away from the hands, feet or head. If it fails, that is when hypothermia kicks in.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hypothermia happens when the body loses heat faster than it produces. If a person is exposed to cold weather for a long time, the body will use its stored energy, which is called hypothermia.

When a body reaches that level, part of the brain is not able to function properly, which can result to bad judgment. It will also limit body movements.

Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, fatigue, loss of coordination, confusion and disorientation.

If a person is already in the state of hypothermia, the best that you can do is to request for an immediate medical assistance. Transfer the victim to a warmer location and remove the wet clothes. Keep the victim dry until his or her body temperature increases to a normal level.

If hypothermia is not treated, the result could be fatal.

Meanwhile, frostbite can be prevented by dressing appropriately. Prolonged exposure to cold areas can cause this condition.

Make sure you have the proper hats, socks, gloves, warm clothing and scarves to prevent your body's temperature to drop. Make sure that the materials used in your clothing can actually protect you from these medical conditions.

Make sure that you have good protections for your fingers and toes as these are the areas of the body that are normally affected by frostbites.

Symptoms of frostbites include numbness, reduced blood flow to hands and feet, tingling or stinging, bluish or pail, waxy skin and aching.

If a person suffers from frostbite, get into a warm location immediately and ask for medical assistance. Remember that rubbing and massaging the affected areas will only cause more damage. Do not attempt to use your fingers and toes if they are already affected by frostbite.