Hypothermia :
Also referred to as exposure, hypothermia occurs when the body's internal temperature drops to a dangerously low level. The combination of being wet, cold, and physically exhausted often leads to hypothermia. If it is not treated properly, it can quickly lead to death, even at temperatures well above freezing.
The symptoms of hypothermia are often subtle and difficult to detect. When a body becomes cold, its natural reaction is to shiver, sometimes uncontrollably. Muscular coordination decreases and simple tasks, especially those using the hands, become difficult. If body temperature continues to fall the body's mechanism for shivering can actually stop; this is a classic sign that someone is suffering from hypothermia. In some cases, a severely chilled person may no longer realize he or she is very cold. Mental confusion, unusual behavior, slurred speech, and ataxia can also occur with hypothermia. If no attempt is made to raise the body temperature, unconsciousness or even death will follow.
Anyone showing the first signs of hypothermia should seek shelter from the conditions causing the problem, particularly the wind. Wet clothes should be removed and the person should drink hot, sweetened liquids; a quick calorie boost is important. If the person cannot be warmed by conventional means, he or she should be stripped to the skin or a layer of dry underwear and put into a sleeping bag with another person dressed similarly to help warm the victim up.
Diagnosing hypothermia is easier if you have a low-reading thermometer. Body temperatures a degree or two below normal (98.6F(37C))are not unusual; temperatures below (96F(35.6)) are probably due to hypothermia.
Effective waterproof raingear and protection from the wind are essential for preventing hypothermia. Avoid wearing cotton clothing against the skin; when cotton gets wet it loses 90 percent of its ability to retain heat. Instead, wear wool, silk, or synthetics such as polypropylene next to your skin; they remain warm even when wet.
HuangShan
Trip 
Great Wall of China
Trip
Hiking in China Home
Page
Audiologist Volunteer Needed
(click for info)