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Hypothermia

What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a dangerous medical condition that occurs when the body's core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), commonly affecting campers and hikers in cold, wet, or windy conditions. It happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to symptoms like uncontrolled shivering, confusion, loss of coordination, and potentially life-threatening complications. Prevention involves wearing appropriate layered clothing, staying dry, maintaining proper nutrition and hydration, and recognizing early warning signs. Hypothermia is one of the most serious risks in outdoor recreation and requires immediate treatment through gradual rewarming and seeking emergency medical care in severe cases.

Related Terms

Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia is a dangerous medical condition where the body's core temperature rises above normal levels (above 100.4°F/38°C), often occurring during outdoor activities in hot weather or from overexertion. It encompasses heat-related illnesses ranging from heat exhaustion to life-threatening heat stroke, where the body's cooling mechanisms become overwhelmed and can no longer regulate temperature effectively. Hikers and campers are at risk when engaging in strenuous activity in high temperatures, wearing excessive clothing, or becoming dehydrated, making prevention through proper hydration, rest, and heat management crucial for outdoor safety.