What are common signs of hypothermia?

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerously low body temperature. The signs of hypothermia are critical to recognize for prompt treatment. Shivering is often the first noticeable sign, as it is the body's natural response to generate heat through muscle activity. However, as hypothermia progresses, shivering may stop, and the person may exhibit confusion and drowsiness due to the effects of cold on brain function. Cold skin is also a common sign since blood flow is reduced to maintain core temperature, leading to a drop in skin warmth.

Recognizing these signs is crucial for lifeguards and other first responders, as early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals experiencing hypothermia. Therefore, the combination of shivering, confusion, drowsiness, and cold skin clearly aligns with the physiological and psychological effects of exposure to low temperatures.