Hypothermia, Frostbite: What You Need to Know—A Message from Dr. Love

Hypothermia, Frostbite: What You Need to Know—A Message from Dr. Love

Hypothermia, Frostbite: What You Need to Know—A Message from Dr. Love

ROBERTSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE (Smokey Barn News) – As Robertson County continues to experience prolonged cold temperatures, TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center is reminding residents of the risks associated with hypothermia and frostbite.

“Hypothermia can set in quickly, especially for the elderly, children, and outdoor workers,” said Dr. Anani Love, the medical director of emergency services at TriStar NorthCrest. “Recognizing symptoms and acting fast can save lives.”

Dr. Love provided key information on the symptoms, first aid measures, and when to seek professional medical help in the case of suspected hypothermia:

    • Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness, and pale, cold skin.
    • First Aid: Move the person to a warm, dry place, remove wet clothing, and warm the body with blankets and skin-to-skin contact. Avoid direct heat sources like hot water bottles or heating pads.
    • Seek Help: Call 911 if symptoms worsen or if the person becomes unconscious.

 

Dr. Love also advised when to visit the emergency room for further care:

  • Severe shivering or inability to stop shivering.
  • Confusion, slurred speech, or loss of coordination.
  • Prolonged exposure to cold, with pale or bluish skin.
  • Unresponsiveness or unconsciousness.

Cold Weather Safety Tips:

  • Dress in layers, and wear a hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to cold, wind, and wet conditions.
  • Check on elderly neighbors to ensure they have adequate heating.
  • Limit outdoor activities for children during extreme cold.

For more information, visit TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center’s Facebook page or their website at TriStarNorthCrest.com.

About TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center
TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center is a 109-bed acute care hospital dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of Robertson County and the surrounding areas. We offer an array of services, including emergency care, orthopedics, cardiology, women’s care, and diagnostic imaging. Our mission is to enhance community and patient wellness through the teamwork of skilled and compassionate employees and physicians. For more information, call TriStar MedLine® at 615-342-1919. Visit us at TriStarHealth.com/Northcrest, “Like” us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram.

About TriStar Health
TriStar Health is one of the largest and most comprehensive healthcare providers in the region, comprised of 11 hospitals, 21 imaging centers, 93 physician offices, five freestanding ERs, eight outpatient surgery centers, 21 CareNow® Urgent Care centers, and ten medical parks. TriStar Health utilizes advances in clinical technology and innovative procedures while delivering high-quality care. The TriStar Health network had over 900,000 encounters last year, including 478,000 ER visits, 93,000 inpatient admissions, and 8,000 babies delivered. The network is supported by over 2,400 physicians and 10,000 employees – including more than 2,800 nurses – who, above all else, are committed to the care and improvement of human life. TriStar Health is an affiliate of HCA Healthcare, one of the nation’s leading providers of healthcare services. Learn more at TriStarHealth.com.

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