|
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 18e
| Part 2. Cardinal Manifestations and Presentation of Diseases > Section 2. Alterations in Body Temperature > |
Chapter 19. Hypothermia and Frostbite
Sections: Hypothermia, Frostbite, Further Readings.
Topics Discussed: cold temperature; effects of low temperature.
Excerpt:"Accidental hypothermia occurs when there is an unintentional drop in the body's core temperature below 35°C (95°F). At this temperature, many of the compensatory physiologic mechanisms that conserve heat begin to fail. Primary accidental hypothermia is a result of the direct exposure of a previously healthy individual to the cold. The mortality rate is much higher for patients who develop secondary hypothermia as a complication of a serious systemic disorder.Primary accidental hypothermia is geographically and seasonally pervasive. Although most cases occur in the winter months and in colder climates, it is surprisingly common in warmer regions as well. Multiple variables make individuals at the extremes of age, the elderly and neonates, particularly vulnerable to hypothermia (Table 19-1). The elderly have diminished thermal perception and are more susceptible to immobility, malnutrition, and systemic illnesses that interfere with heat generation or conservation. Dementia, psychiatric illness, and socioeconomic factors often compound these problems by impeding adequate measures to prevent hypothermia. Neonates have high rates of heat loss because of their increased surface-to-mass ratio and their lack of effective shivering and adaptive..."
The content above is only an excerpt.
For full access, log into an existing user account below,
purchase an annual subscription, or
purchase a short-term subscription to the complete website.
|
|
|
|
Or
|
|
|
|