Hypothermia - important information
Posted: 07 Jun 2010, 11:25
Now we are coming into the winter months, the air is cooler and the water even more so. Just by being out on the water in the cooler weather with cold wind, cold moisture in the air we have an added risk to our enjoyment and safety; and with the added risk of possible capsize and immersion we really do need to be educated and prepared. Lets look at Hypothermia, its symptoms, treatment and most importantly its prevention.
Hypothermia occurs when we lose heat faster than our body can produce it. Normal body core temperature is around 37`C, below this hypothermia develops. Factors that contribute to hypothermia include low temperatures, winds and damp conditions, as kayakers we also have water playing a large part. Heat loss from the body is 30 times more rapid when the skin is wet than when it is dry.
Kayakers get plenty of water on them even when they remain upright while paddling. So our risk of hyperthermia is greater than average. Refrain from alcohol as it sends heat to the skin which is then lost.
Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature below 35`C. Symptoms include shivering, reduced energy, lapses of attention, nausea. As the internal temperature drops, people become more disoriented and irrational. At 30`C core temperature, shivering stops and muscle activity slows, unconsciousness may occur and become more prominent as the condition progresses, a desire to go to sleep becomes overwhelming. At 25`C the person may reach a state of coma.
Stages of Hypothermia and treatment:
Stage 1. Mild: 35`C
Maximum shivering, fatigue, nausea, confusion, poor coordination, slurred speech, usually conscious but with apathy and slowed thinking.
Treatment: Remove wet clothing, get skin dry and begin active re-warming. Protect from the elements. Give warm, sweet drinks, build fire, provide insulation such as sleeping bag or thermal blanket. Monitor condition.
Stage 2. Moderate: 30`C
Most shivering stops, muscle cramps and rigidity, disorientation, sleepiness, consciousness clouded, breathing and pulse become slow and difficult to detect.
Treatment: Requires evacuation to a warm environment and medical evaluation. Handle patient with gentle care. Lay flat and insulate, give warm drinks if conscious and able to swallow, gentle re-warming is required so DO NOT rub or massage nor expose them to excessive heat e.g fire.
Stage 3. Severe: 25`C
Progressive loss of consciousness, heartbeat irregularities,, pupils fixed and dilated, coma like, cardiac and respiratory arrest.
Treatment: Immediate evacuation, monitor condition, may require basic life support/ CPR.
Of course, the best treatment is PREVENTION. Dress for the environment and the fact you will no doubt get wet. Be aware of the initial signs of hypothermia and get out of the water and warm again before it gets worse.
What to wear:
• Most heat loss is through the head so a beanie (wool or fleece) or a neoprene skull cap is advised,
• Your hands will be in the water a lot so neoprene gloves are a great idea, special paddler gloves aren’t as thick in the palm and fingers so allow a good grip on the paddle, even the fabric lined kitchen gloves can be used
• Your feet will get cold in the hull of your boat so neoprene booties, neoprene slippers or neoprene socks are good.
• For the legs and upper body it depends on the temperature, you may choose thermals, wetsuit,fuzzy rubber tops and pants, spraytop/cag or a drysuit or a combination of them. Light layers of suitable clothing are best. Avoid heavy clothing and be aware that waders are a potential drowning risk if you end up in the water.
ALWAYS WEAR YOUR PFD. and it is recommended you kayak with a friend and carry the minimum safety gear with you.
Stay safe this winter and enjoy your kayak fishing.
Hypothermia occurs when we lose heat faster than our body can produce it. Normal body core temperature is around 37`C, below this hypothermia develops. Factors that contribute to hypothermia include low temperatures, winds and damp conditions, as kayakers we also have water playing a large part. Heat loss from the body is 30 times more rapid when the skin is wet than when it is dry.
Kayakers get plenty of water on them even when they remain upright while paddling. So our risk of hyperthermia is greater than average. Refrain from alcohol as it sends heat to the skin which is then lost.
Hypothermia is defined as a core body temperature below 35`C. Symptoms include shivering, reduced energy, lapses of attention, nausea. As the internal temperature drops, people become more disoriented and irrational. At 30`C core temperature, shivering stops and muscle activity slows, unconsciousness may occur and become more prominent as the condition progresses, a desire to go to sleep becomes overwhelming. At 25`C the person may reach a state of coma.
Stages of Hypothermia and treatment:
Stage 1. Mild: 35`C
Maximum shivering, fatigue, nausea, confusion, poor coordination, slurred speech, usually conscious but with apathy and slowed thinking.
Treatment: Remove wet clothing, get skin dry and begin active re-warming. Protect from the elements. Give warm, sweet drinks, build fire, provide insulation such as sleeping bag or thermal blanket. Monitor condition.
Stage 2. Moderate: 30`C
Most shivering stops, muscle cramps and rigidity, disorientation, sleepiness, consciousness clouded, breathing and pulse become slow and difficult to detect.
Treatment: Requires evacuation to a warm environment and medical evaluation. Handle patient with gentle care. Lay flat and insulate, give warm drinks if conscious and able to swallow, gentle re-warming is required so DO NOT rub or massage nor expose them to excessive heat e.g fire.
Stage 3. Severe: 25`C
Progressive loss of consciousness, heartbeat irregularities,, pupils fixed and dilated, coma like, cardiac and respiratory arrest.
Treatment: Immediate evacuation, monitor condition, may require basic life support/ CPR.
Of course, the best treatment is PREVENTION. Dress for the environment and the fact you will no doubt get wet. Be aware of the initial signs of hypothermia and get out of the water and warm again before it gets worse.
What to wear:
• Most heat loss is through the head so a beanie (wool or fleece) or a neoprene skull cap is advised,
• Your hands will be in the water a lot so neoprene gloves are a great idea, special paddler gloves aren’t as thick in the palm and fingers so allow a good grip on the paddle, even the fabric lined kitchen gloves can be used
• Your feet will get cold in the hull of your boat so neoprene booties, neoprene slippers or neoprene socks are good.
• For the legs and upper body it depends on the temperature, you may choose thermals, wetsuit,fuzzy rubber tops and pants, spraytop/cag or a drysuit or a combination of them. Light layers of suitable clothing are best. Avoid heavy clothing and be aware that waders are a potential drowning risk if you end up in the water.
ALWAYS WEAR YOUR PFD. and it is recommended you kayak with a friend and carry the minimum safety gear with you.
Stay safe this winter and enjoy your kayak fishing.