With the mercury in thermometers expected to drop significantly this weekend as the state of New York continues to experience freezing temperatures, health experts are warning about the risks of hypothermia.
“We’re talking 40 degrees,” said Dr. Aimalohi Gray of St. Peter’s Primary Care in Ballston Spa. “That is a temperature that people can start to develop hypothermia at.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing water-resistant clothing to keep warm, staying hydrated and remaining in places properly ventilated and heated.
Children, the elderly and people who are outside for long periods of time are often more at risk.
“The risks are even worse if you are in cold air or cold water because you can lose heat very easily,” said Gray.
Gray recommends people wear wool socks instead of cotton ones to make sure your feet aren’t only warm, but also properly ventilated so they don’t sweat.
If you begin to experience symptoms which include feeling very tired, confused, shivering and memory loss, it’s important to seek medical attention.
“If we’re talking true hypothermia, we’re talking a core body temperature of 95 degrees or below that being true hypothermia that would be a reason for you to contact your primary provider,” said Gray.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, while you seek medical attention, it’s important to remove any wet clothing, put any frostbite areas in warm water and to wrap in warm, dry layers of blankets or clothing.