Feb 22, 2007 5:55 pm US/Eastern
Frostbite, Hypothermia Can Happen Quickly In Cold
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ―
With temperatures below freezing, hypothermia and frostbite are always concerns.
KDKA's Dr. Maria Simbra reports 700 people a year die from conditions related directly to the cold.
Children and the elderly are most at risk.
Other people at risk for hypothermia and frostbite are people who use alcohol or drugs, and certain chronic medical conditions, like burns, blood vessel and thyroid problems, and neurological illnesses.
If you have to be outside, stay dry.
Being wet and in the wind will increase your chance of hypothermia.
That's when your internal body temperature is just four degrees lower than normal.
Simbra say to know if you're in trouble, just remember the "umbles" -- that's stumbles, mumbles, and fumbles for slurred speech, confusion, and un-coordination.
Cold, pale skin and slow breathing can be other signs of danger.
For frostbite, look for white, waxy-looking patches on cold, numb skin.
If you notice any of these problems, get out of the cold immediately and don't hesitate to get medical attention right away.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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