It can occur even at mild temperatures if exposure is prolonged. The body's natural defenses against the cold consist of restricting the flow of blood to the skin to help prevent heat loss, shivering and releasing hormones to generate heat. These measures are limited and are usually inadequate to maintain body temperature in cold environments. Symptoms Early symptoms of hypothermia are likely to include drowsiness, irritability, mental confusion, and pallor. Speech becomes slurred.
Comas can eventually occur, with slow, weak breathing and decreased heart rate.
Treating hypothermia requires immediate medical attention. Until medical attention can be sought, begin warming the body by removing any wet clothing. Also, move the victim to a warm environment. The key to treating hypothermia is a gentle, gradual re-warming of the chilled body. It's best done in a medical facility.