What is hypothermia and its symptoms as North London Lido deals with ‘at least one hypothermic swimmer every day’
However, many lido swimmers in north London have ignored it and don’t take it seriously. Lifeguards are now dealing with “at least one swimmer with hypothermia every day”, staff at the Hampstead Heath outdoor pool said on social media. A medical emergency can lead to complete heart failure and respiratory failure, which can lead to death.
“It’s much cooler than it was just a week ago, but some swimmers are still trying to stay in the water as much as they did last week,” officials warned.
What are the early signs that you or someone you know may be suffering from hypothermia?
What is hypothermia and why does it occur?
When the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, the body’s temperature drops dangerously low. Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35 degrees, while the normal temperature is about 37 degrees.
This drop in heat can be caused by exposure to cold weather or when people immerse themselves in cold water.
Symptoms of hypothermia
Early warning signs of the disease may include:
- Weak pulse
- Chills
- Low energy
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Slurred speech, mumbling
- Confusion or memory loss
- Loss of consciousness
- Clumsiness
- drowsiness
- Bright red or cold skin (as seen in babies).
What to do if you or someone else is suffering from hypothermia
The National Health Service recommends moving the person indoors as soon as possible and removing wet clothing and wrapping the person in a blanket or towel. Patients must stay awake and someone must stay with them at all times.
If possible, you should also try to give them a warm drink or sweet food.
The National Health Service advises against rubbing their bodies, giving them hot baths or placing them near heat, and not giving them alcohol.
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/hypothermia-signs-symptoms-what-to-do-b1043524.html
