Hypothermia and Other Cold-Related Diseases.

Cold weather leads to a big rise in deaths. Exposure to cold is estimated to cause 650 deaths a year in Ireland, representing 44% of excess winter deaths. The causes vary, and include increased susceptibility to flu, heart and respiratory problems. However, hypothermia is one of the most deadly cold-induced diseases and, if not prevented, caught and treated early on, can lead to a rapid decline in the body's ability to function normally.

What is it?

Hypothermia occurs when the body's core temperature is lowered due to exposure to cold. It can occur even at mild temperatures if exposure is prolonged. The body's natural defences against the cold consist of restricting the flow of blood to the skin so as to prevent heat loss, along with shivering and releasing hormones to generate heat. These measures are limited and are usually inadequate to maintain body temperature in cold environments. .

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms take effect in three stages.

The first stage - mild hypothermia - is characterised by:

• Bouts of shivering;
• Grogginess and muddled thinking.

Indicators of moderate hypothermia are:

• Violent shivering or shivering which suddenly stops;
• Inability to think and pay attention;
• Slow, shallow breathing;
• Slow, weak pulse.

Severe hypothermia has set in when:

• Shivering stops;
• The patient loses consciousness;
• There is little or no breathing;
• Pulse is weak, irregular or non-existent.

Who is at risk?

The elderly, especially of the lowest-economic groups living in houses built before 1997 buildings regulations were set, and babies under one year old are most at risk.

How can it be prevented?

The key rules are to wear many layers of clothing, drink plenty of fluids and hot drinks (but not alcohol) and keep well nourished. Maintaining movement to keep circulation up is also advised. Furthermore, the house insulation and draught-proofing is recommended. On other tips how to stay warm in house, please visit our Energy Efficiency page.

Some Facts

• Each winter in Ireland there is an increase in deaths due to cold related illnesses. .
• Half of these deaths are from strokes and coronaries. .
• The death occur when the temperature falls below 8C.
• On the factors causing the deaths is that blood clots occur more easily, when the temperature of body falls.
• A blood clot can cause heart attack or a stroke.