The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) urges the public to know
the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite and take extra
precautions during times of extremely cold weather such as those being
experienced in the state this week.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency that can lead to death. Hypothermia
occurs when the body’s core temperature falls below 95 degrees F, just
a few degrees less than the normal body temperature. When exposed to
cold, human bodies begin to lose heat faster than it can be produced.

Frostbite is an injury most common on exposed skin such as cheeks, nose
and ears, but it can also occur on hands and feet. Early warning signs
include numbness, loss of feeling or a stinging sensation. If you
suspect frostbite, get the person out of the cold immediately and slowly
warm the affected area, but do not rub it since that can damage the
skin. If numbness continues, seek emergency care.
Signs and symptoms of hypothermia are as follows:

Adults:
·        Shivering
·        Exhaustion or feeling very tired
·        Confusion
·        Fumbling hands
·        Memory loss
·        Slurred speech
·        Drowsiness

Babies:
·        Bright red, cold skin
·        Very low energy

Frostbite
Any of the following signs may point to frostbite:
·        A white or grayish-yellow skin area
·        Skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
·        Numbness

If unable to get help right away, try to warm the person up.
·        Get the person into a warm room or shelter.
·        Remove any wet clothing the person is wearing.
·        Warm the center of the person’s body—chest, neck, head,
and groin—using an electric blanket, if available. You can also use
skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing,
towels, or sheets.
·        Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, but do not
give alcoholic drinks. Do not try to give beverages to an unconscious
person.
·        After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and
wrap their body, including their head and neck, in a warm blanket.
·        Get the person proper medical attention as soon as possible.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, victims of
hypothermia are often:
·        Older adults with inadequate food, clothing or heating
·        Babies sleeping in cold bedrooms
·        People who remain outdoors for long periods—people
experiencing homelessness, hikers, hunters and others
·        People who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs.
Guidance and graphics about preventing hypothermia and frostbite
precautions are available at
https://www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/staysafe/hypothermia.html