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Extremes of Body Temperature: Hypothermia & Heat Stroke — Reference Guide

Extremes of Body Temperature

Learn how to recognize and treat hypothermia, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke

❄️ Hypothermia (Too Cold)

A dangerous drop in body temperature below 35°C (95°F). Common in cold, wet, or windy conditions.

? Signs & Symptoms:

  • Shivering (may stop in severe cases)
  • Cold, pale, or bluish skin
  • Slurred speech
  • Slow breathing or pulse
  • Confusion, drowsiness, or loss of coordination
  • Eventually unconsciousness

Treatment:

  1. Call 999 if severe or unconscious.
  2. Move the person indoors or to shelter.
  3. Remove wet clothing and dry the person.
  4. Wrap in blankets or dry layers (include head, not face).
  5. Use body heat if needed (e.g., cuddle under blanket).
  6. Give warm drinks (if alert) – no alcohol or caffeine.
  7. Monitor breathing and response – prepare to give CPR if necessary.
  8. Do not rub or massage limbs, and do not rewarm quickly (e.g., no hot baths).

? Heat Exhaustion

Overheating of the body, usually from prolonged heat exposure or physical exertion.

? Signs & Symptoms:

  • Headache or dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sweating, pale or clammy skin
  • Muscle cramps
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Feeling faint or tired

Treatment:

  1. Move to a cool, shaded area.
  2. Lie the person down and raise their legs slightly.
  3. Loosen clothing and remove excess layers.
  4. Give cool fluids (water or rehydration solution).
  5. Cool skin – sponge with cool water or use a fan.
  6. Monitor – if symptoms worsen or persist after 30 minutes, call 999.

☀️ Heatstroke (Medical Emergency)

A life-threatening condition where the body temperature rises above 40°C (104°F) and cannot cool down.

? Signs & Symptoms:

  • Hot, red, dry or damp skin
  • Confusion or agitation
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Strong, fast pulse
  • No sweating despite heat

Treatment:

  1. Call 999 immediately – this is an emergency.
  2. Move to a cool place.
  3. Remove outer clothing.
  4. Cool the person quickly:
    • Use cool water spray or sponge
    • Fan them
    • Apply cold packs to neck, armpits, and groin
  5. Stay with them and monitor breathing and response.
  6. Be ready to give CPR if they stop breathing.

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