Accidental hypothermia

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Patients may present with fever and rigors. However, a lowered temperature is possible (particularly in very young patients and older adult patients) and the presentations may be indistinguishable.

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Cases that mimic hypothermia most commonly result from longstanding hypothyroidism. Typical symptoms include cold intolerance, fatigue, weight gain, constipation, a deep voice, coarse hair, and dry skin.

Severe hypothyroidism may result in myxedema coma. Myxedema refers to nonpitting edema of skin and soft tissue. An associated change in level of consciousness (not necessarily coma) is present.

Concurrent infection or noncompliance with thyroid replacement medications may precipitate myxedema coma in a patient with hypothyroidism.

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Common presenting symptoms include nausea, confusion, tremor, sweating, palpitations, or hunger.

Patients may present with a lowered temperature as hypoglycemia can impair the body’s ability to retain heat through shivering.

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Substance misuse (e.g., with cannabis) may impair judgment and restrict shivering, thereby limiting the ability to respond appropriately to cold temperatures.

Signs and symptoms depend on the substance taken.

SIGNS / SYMPTOMS

Usually presents with altered mental state alone. Alcohol causes vasodilation, impairs judgment, and causes somnolence and a subjective feeling of warmth. Measures to prevent hypothermia may not be taken and therefore patients may present with lowered temperatures.