Signs of hypothermia as bone chilling weather arrives
Jan 20, 2025
AUSTIN (KXAN) — As winter continues and extremely cold conditions settle in, doctors and health experts say now is the time to limit our time outside and watch for signs of hypothermia.
"We're not accustomed to the health problems that come with these extreme temperatures," Dr. Ryan McCorckle with St. David's Medical Center said. "People start to shiver uncontrollably, that's probably the first sign of your body trying to generate some heat. Then the more concerning signs start after that. It could mimic a stroke."
McCorckle also said to look out for slurred speech, confusion and mumbling which can also be signs of hypothermia.
"When you feel that uncontrollable shivering, it's time to get somewhere with some heat. You want to dress in layers as much as you can, and you want to move around to generate heat."
If you believe hypothermia is setting in, doctors recommend getting indoors quickly and seeking treatment as soon as it is safe.