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Cold Exposure

The condition of being in low temperatures, which can negatively affect the body.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels, which occurs as a response to cold exposure and can lead to loss of dexterity.

Shivering

An involuntary muscular response to cold intended to generate heat, requiring significant energy.

Chilblain

A nonfreezing cold injury causing painful inflammation of blood vessels in the skin due to exposure to cold air.

Trench Foot

Injury that occurs when feet are exposed to wet and cold conditions for more than 12 hours.

Frostbite

An injury caused by freezing which results in numbness and can affect fingers, hands, feet, and toes.

Hypothermia

A life-threatening condition resulting from abnormally low body temperature due to prolonged cold exposure.

Body Heat Loss

Loss of body heat occurs primarily through radiation (65%), evaporation (20%), respiration, convection, and conduction.

Symptoms of Hypothermia

Signs include shivering, confusion, exhaustion, drowsiness, and a cool abdomen.

Vulnerable Individuals to Cold Injuries

Older adults, children, dehydrated people, and those with inadequate nutrition or clothing.

Preventative Measures for Cold Injury

Include proper hydration, nutrition, wearing layered clothing, and limiting inactivity.

Shivering Cessation Temperature

Shivering typically stops at a body temperature between 86-90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Main Source of Heat Loss

The head is the main area from which heat loss occurs in the body.

Impact of Alcohol on Cold Exposure

Alcohol dilates blood vessels and impairs the body's ability to shiver, increasing cold injury risk.

Painful Symptoms of Trench Foot

Symptoms include tingling, itching, pain, swelling, blisters, and numbness in the foot.

Signs of Frostbite

Includes redness, pain, numbness, firm or waxy skin, and discolored skin.

Treatment for Frostbite

Involves warming the affected area with lukewarm water and avoiding rapid rewarming.

Risks of Hypothermia

Risks include prolonged cold exposure, wet clothing, and cold wind; vulnerable populations include babies and the elderly.

Recovery for Hypothermia Victims

Start CPR even if there are no signs of life, as the person may not be dead.