What it is
While waiting for help, move the person somewhere warm, remove wet clothing, wrap them in blankets and give warm, sweet drinks if they are alert.
Do not rub their arms and legs or use a hot bath or hot water bottles, as this can be dangerous.
Common signs
- Shivering
- Pale, cold and dry skin
- Slurred speech
- Slow breathing
- Tiredness or confusion
- Shivering stopping in severe cases
How it is usually diagnosed
- Body temperature measurement
- Blood tests and heart monitoring in hospital
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Emergency department or discharge letters
- Notes on what happened
Questions to ask your doctor
- Am I at higher risk in cold weather?
- Could any of my medicines affect how I cope with cold?
- How can I keep my home warm enough?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Shivering with confusion, slurred speech, slow breathing or drowsiness: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.