Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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COLD Exposure - Hypothermia
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Hypothermia occurs when a person's body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit or 35 degrees centigrade.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Hypothermia is most likely in those who:
Hypothermia occurs when more heat is lost from the body than the body can produce. Although it usually happens at extremely cold temperatures, it can occur even at moderate temperatures. It does not have to be freezing outside for a person to become hypothermic. For example, falling into cold water or wearing wet clothing in cold weather can bring on hypothermia. Failing to wear a hat in cold weather can also lead to hypothermia, since a large amount of body heat escapes through the head.
Extreme fatigue, hunger, or lack of fluids can also lead to hypothermia. Excessive wind can increase the amount of heat lost and cause hypothermia as well.