Conduction is the loss or transfer of body heat by the contact of our body
to a cooler object; the heat leaves the body and is transferred to the object.
Example: When our body is lying in snow for a long period of time.
Evaporation
This is when the human body loses heat through the process of removing water
from the skin surface.
Convection
Convection is when cool air moves across the skin’s surface and heat is
transferred to the cooler air, which cools the body.
Respiration
This is when inspired air is raised to body temperature and exhaled.
Every one of these things cause heat loss from the human body and can play a
role, either large or small, in the development of hypothermia. Dependent
factors include head cover, the type of clothing worn, wind, temperature and
weather conditions.
When the human body develops hypothermia, the deficit of heat is shared by
both the body’s core and shell. Though much of the human body is core, the term
“core temperature” involves mainly the area of the body’s brain, heart and
lungs.
Signs of Hypothermia
Threat
When the body’s core temperature drops to 98 degrees Fahrenheit (36 degrees
Celsius,) the threat of hypothermia exists. At this point a person will
increase activity in order to keep warm. The skin can become numb, pale and
have a waxy appearance. Shivering begins and muscles become tense. Fatigue and
signs of weakness become apparent. If the person can become active and stay
active, hypothermia can be avoided.
Mild
When a person’s core temperature drops to between 94 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit
(35 to 34 degrees Celsius,) mild hypothermia will set in. Intense shivering
that can’t be controlled wracks the body. At this point the person is very
alert and is still able to help himself. However, body movement can be
uncoordinated because the cold is causing some discomfort and pain.