(a) Apathetic or lethargic behavior.
(b) Shivering.
(c)
Pale, cold skin.
(d) Slurred speech.
(e) Poor muscle coordination.
(f)
Faint pulse.
(2) Severe hypothermia. In severe hypothermia, the casualty's core body
temperature is below 90 F. Signs and symptoms of severe hypothermia include:
(a) Slow and shallow breathing.
(b) Irregular heart action.
(c)
Weak or absent pulse.
(d) Stupor or unconsciousness.
(e) Ice cold skin.
(f)
Rigid muscles.
(g) "Glassy" eyes.
9-7.
PREVENTING COLD INJURIES
Cold injuries are caused by the body losing heat faster than it can be replaced.
Cold injuries are most likely to occur when an unprepared person is exposed to cold
winter temperatures. A person may be unaware that he is developing cold injury until it
is too late. Although cold injuries are often associated with very cold weather,
preventive measures against cold are needed anytime the temperature drops to 50F or
below. Wind and moisture increase the rate at which the body loses heat. Fear,
fatigue, dehydration, inadequate food intake, inadequate rest, inadequate clothing,
sustained contact with cold ground, and long periods of immobilization also contribute to
cold injury. A soldier with a history of cold injury is especially susceptible to future cold
injury. A soldier should take the following measures to help prevent becoming a cold
injury casualty.
IS0877
9-13
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