How do I treat hypothermia

When treating hypothermia, it's important to focus on warming the person effectively and safely. Here are steps recommended by Craig Heller, as discussed on the Huberman Lab:

1. Protect the Core and Extremities: When a person is hypothermic, it's critical to warm not just the torso but also the extremities which are often neglected. In a hypothermic situation, it’s common to cover the head and torso, but ensuring extremities like the hands and feet are warmed can be crucial.

2. Use Warm Blankets and Heat Pads: In a medical setting, standard practice involves covering the person with warm blankets and using heat lamps. Alternatives like circulating warm water blankets or warm pads can also be effective. Placing these on the feet or using heated gloves can help speed up the warming process 1.

3. Provide Warm Liquids: If the person can swallow safely, giving warm (but not hot) liquids can help warm them from the inside.

4. Avoid Rapid Rewarming of Extremities Alone: It’s important not to warm the extremities alone too quickly without addressing the core, as this can lead to shock.

5. Seek Professional Medical Help: Always involve medical professionals in cases of severe hypothermia, as they may require specific treatments and monitoring to prevent complications 2.

Remember, hypothermia is a medical emergency, and getting professional help as soon as possible is crucial.