Old man winter can pack a powerful punch in Ohio, especially for older adults. As you get older, your body has more difficulty controlling its temperature. You’re also more likely to have certain medical conditions that make it hard to stay warm, such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or thyroid issues.

The cold truth is that older adults are more likely than younger people to suffer from hypothermia and frostbite. Awareness is key to protecting yourself from winter’s sting.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a dangerous condition that occurs when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees. It can lead to heart attacks, kidney problems, liver damage or death.

According to the National Institutes of Health, even a small drop in the surrounding temperature or a short time spent outside in the cold can cause a large drop in body temperature in older adults and infants.

Hypothermia can even happen indoors. The National Institute on Aging advises keeping your home heated to at least 68 degrees, maintaining proper insulation and blocking any drafts with blankets or pillows.

Hypothermia Symptoms and Treatment

Signs that you’re experiencing hypothermia include:

• Shivering
  
  
• Feeling sleepy, confused or angry
  
  
• Slurred speech
  
  
• Cold feet and hands
  
  
• Pale skin
  
  
• Stiff movement of arms and legs
  
  
• Slow heartbeat or breathing

If you suspect someone has hypothermia, call 911 immediately. If possible, move them to a warmer place, wrap them in blankets and encourage them to drink a warm, nonalcoholic beverage.

Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when your skin freezes because of exposure to cold temperatures, often below 32 degrees. It can cause permanent damage and even lead to amputation.

The severity of frostbite symptoms depends on factors such as air temperature, length of time spent in the cold, wind chill, dampness and how well your clothing has protected you from the weather.

For example, exposed skin can freeze in just a few minutes with a wind chill of minus 19 degrees, according to the National Weather Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Frostbite Symptoms and Treatment

Frostbite can occur anywhere on your body, but your fingers, toes, ears, nose, cheeks and any exposed skin are more likely to be injured.

It starts with a feeling of pins and needles, followed by numbness, which can make it less likely you’ll notice the problem. Eventually the skin turns white and starts to appear waxy, hard and cold to the touch.

The National Institutes of Health recommends seeking medical attention if you suspect frostbite. Also, follow these guidelines:

DO:

• Get inside a warm room or vehicle
  
  
• Put your frostbitten skin in warm (not hot) water 
  
  
• Use body heat to warm the frostbitten area (i.e., put your hands under your armpits)
  
  
• Cover the area with a clean cloth, wrapping affected toes and fingers individually 

DO NOT:

• Rub the affected skin
  
  
• Walk on frostbitten feet or toes, if possible
  
  
• Touch hot surfaces with the frostbitten areas

Protect Yourself

If you are going outside in cold weather or driving anywhere, make sure to dress in layers and follow these precautions from the National Institute on Aging.

As with many health concerns, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here’s to a safe and happy winter.

Sources:
National Institute on Aging
National Institutes of Health
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association
National Weather Service
The StayWell Company, LLC