In the outdoors, body temperature imbalance poses a deadly threat. Hypothermia and heatstroke are two common “silent killers” in the wilderness. Understanding their mechanisms, symptoms, and countermeasures is essential for every outdoor enthusiast.
Part One: Hypothermia—The Silent Killer
- What Is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can generate it, causing core body temperature to drop below 35°C (95°F). It doesn’t only occur in icy conditions; the combination of strong winds, humidity, and low temperatures is the most common cause. - Symptoms and Stages of Hypothermia
Mild Hypothermia (35–33°C): Uncontrollable shivering, numbness in hands and feet, clumsy movements, slurred speech.
Moderate Hypothermia (33–35°C): Shivering stops (danger sign!), confusion, slowed reactions, weakened pulse and breathing.
Severe Hypothermia (<30°C): Loss of consciousness, faint pulse/breathing, dilated pupils, life-threatening. - Prevention and First Aid
Prevention:
Three-layer clothing system: Keep base layer dry at all times
Add layers promptly; wear windproof outerwear before wind picks up
Carry and properly use emergency thermal blankets
Maintain energy and hydration
First Aid:
Immediately remove from cold, windy, damp environment
Change into dry clothing; wrap with sleeping bag or thermal blanket
Place hot water bottles under armpits, neck sides, and groin (avoid burns)
Offer warm sugar water to conscious individuals
Critical: Do not rub limbs; avoid alcoholic beverages
Part Two: Heatstroke—The Overheating Crisis
- What is Heatstroke?
An acute condition triggered when core body temperature exceeds 40°C due to failed heat dissipation in high-temperature, high-humidity environments. - Symptoms and Stages of Heatstroke
Heat exhaustion: Profuse sweating, thirst, fatigue, dizziness, ringing in the ears
Mild heatstroke: Flushed or pale complexion, nausea, vomiting, clammy skin
Severe heatstroke: Cessation of sweating (danger signal!), hot flushed skin, confusion, convulsions; can rapidly lead to organ failure and death - Prevention and First Aid
Prevention:
Avoid hiking during peak midday heat
Wear breathable, sun-protective clothing and a ventilated sun hat
Hydrate regularly and proactively with small, frequent sips of fluids and electrolytes
First Aid:
Immediately move to a cool, ventilated area
Remove excess clothing, wipe body with cool water, apply ice packs to major arteries
Replenish with electrolyte-containing beverages
Severe heatstroke requires immediate medical attention
Stay Vigilant, Return Safely
Mastering this knowledge isn’t meant to cause panic, but to provide peace of mind while enjoying nature. Remember: Prevention is better than cure; vigilance is better than regret.
