Hypothermia Symptoms: Recognizing & Understanding the Signs

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing core temperature to drop below 95°F (35°C). Symptoms progress through stages of severity:

Mild Hypothermia (Core Temp 90–95°F / 32–35°C)

• Shivering (intense, uncontrollable)
• Cold, pale skin
• Numbness in extremities
• Mild confusion or impaired judgment
• Fatigue, drowsiness
• Slurred speech
• Increased heart rate and breathing

Moderate Hypothermia (Core Temp 82–90°F / 28–32°C)

• Violent shivering stops (a dangerous sign)
• Severe confusion, memory loss
• Loss of coordination, stumbling
• Drowsiness progressing to unconsciousness
• Slow, shallow breathing
• Weak, irregular pulse
• Dilated pupils
• Stiff muscles

Severe Hypothermia (Core Temp Below 82°F / 28°C)

• Unconsciousness, may appear dead
• No detectable pulse or breathing
• Rigid muscles
• Extremely cold skin

Immediate First Aid

• Call emergency services immediately.
• Move the person to a warm, dry location.
• Remove wet clothing; wrap in dry blankets (cover head and neck).
• Apply heat packs to neck, chest, and groin—not limbs.
• Offer warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids if conscious and able to swallow.
• Handle gently; avoid rubbing or massaging (can trigger cardiac arrhythmia).
• Monitor breathing and pulse; begin CPR if needed.