What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia often occurs at very cold temperatures, but you can still be susceptible at temperatures as warm as 60 degrees

Hypothermia is a severe and potentially deadly health condition. It happens when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees.

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Here is a closer look at hypothermia, it symptoms and what you can do to prevent it.

At what temperature can you get hypothermia?

Hypothermia often occurs at cold temperatures, but you can still be susceptible at temperatures as warm as 60 degrees, particularly in water or if you're outside for an extended period of time and not dressed appropriately for the conditions, according to the National Weather Service.

Although everyone needs to be careful, most people who die of hypothermia every year are seniors, according to the National Institute of Aging.

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What is one of the first symptoms of hypothermia?

If your temperature drops, you could feel sluggish or unable to think clearly. 

Fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and exhaustion are also symptoms of hypothermia. Infants will also seem to have low energy and bright red, cold skin. 

Seek medical help immediately or go to a hospital if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms. It's better to be overly cautious than to ignore vital warning signs.

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How you can prevent hypothermia

There are several ways to prevent hypothermia, but the most important is staying warm and dry. Make sure to dress in layers when you're outside in cold weather, and if your clothes get wet, you need to change into something warmer. Wear a hat outdoors to protect your head and prevent frostbite.

Make sure the temperature inside your home is comfortable. Remember, you can get hypothermia in temperatures as warm as 60 degrees.

It's also essential to ask your doctor if any medications you take daily can increase your risk of hypothermia.

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If you're with someone who may have hypothermia, call an ambulance since this is an emergency situation.

The National Weather Service said the next thing you can do is lie close to the person and cover yourselves with thick blankets. The warmer you get, the warmer the other person will get. 

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