What happens to your body when you die from the cold

Average temperature

A person's core body temperature usually hovers around 8.6°F (37°C). But it can range between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C).

When it gets dangerous

However, hypothermia at these relatively cool temperatures is unusual. The real danger is when it gets to freezing temperatures.

What are the symptoms?

Mild symptoms of hypothermia, such as weakness and confusion, set in when the core body temperature reaches about 95°F (35°C). Lower than that, and bad things start to happen. 

It can happen slowly

Hypothermia can progress slowly, and affected people may not even be aware they need medical help.

Further symptoms

The person may feel exhausted and their skin may be pale. And as hypothermia advances, so do other symptoms such as fumbling hands, slurred speech, confusion, and drowsiness.

Organs shut down

Improper functioning of the heart results in reduced blood flow to many organs. This puts the body in a state of shock and increases the risk of conditions like liver and kidney failure.

The most vulnerable

People who are at the highest risk for hypothermia are young children and the very old. This is because they generally have weaker heart muscles.

The record of lowest surviving body temperature

The record for the lowest body temperature which an adult has been known to survive is 56.7°F (13.7°C). It occurred after the person was submerged in cold, icy water for quite some time.

The body's response

As soon as the cold air hits your face, the body will try to insulate itself by moving blood away from the skin and outer extremities, such as fingers and toes. This process is known as vasoconstriction, and it helps limit the amount of heat lost.

Frostbite danger

Although extreme conditions are often needed to induce hypothermia in a healthy person, frostbite is more common in less severe weather.

Sweat can contribute to frostbite

And even if your feet are protected by socks and shoes, toe temperatures can get very low. Plus, if you sweat, the moistness will draw even more heat out of the area.

Frostbite symptoms

Apart from cold skin, symptoms also include a prickling feeling followed by numbness and inflamed, or discolored, skin. As frostbite worsens, skin may become hard or waxy-looking.

Treating frostbite

Frostnip can be treated by rewarming. All other frostbite needs medical attention because it can permanently damage skin, muscle, bone, and other tissue.

How long it takes

But if it’s -15°F (-26°C) with a wind chill of -55°F (-48°C), you could get frostbite in five minutes.

Dress for the conditions

It's recommended that you wear at least three layers: a wicking layer that wicks moisture away from the skin, an insulating layer, and a protective outer layer. Proper headwear, gloves, socks, and footwear are also essential.

Plan breaks from the cold

If you need to be out in the cold, for example due to your job, make sure to plan warm-up breaks inside. Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors, and nourish yourself with hot drinks and food.

Sources: (Live Science) (NSW Health)