Causes and treatment of low body temperature
About the Symptom
Low body temperature, also known as hypothermia, is a condition in which the body’s temperature drops below the normal level, which is approximately 36.6°C. This phenomenon can cause various symptoms that can range from mild fatigue and chills to more severe conditions such as confusion or loss of consciousness. Low temperature can be the result of various factors, including prolonged exposure to the cold, inadequate nutrition, severe illnesses, or endocrine system problems.
Among the main symptoms of hypothermia are feelings of cold, shivering, weakness, difficulty breathing, and a slowed heart rate. It is important to note that if the temperature continues to drop, the symptoms can worsen, leading to life-threatening situations. If such signs appear, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately to avoid serious health consequences. Accurate diagnosis and timely treatment play a key role in restoring normal body temperature and the overall condition of the patient.
Diseases
Hypothermia, also known as low body temperature, can be a symptom of various diseases and disorders. This condition occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, which can happen due to both external factors and internal pathologies. Hypothermia may indicate serious health problems, including metabolic disorders and endocrine system disturbances. Therefore, it is important to understand which diseases can lead to a decrease in body temperature in order to seek medical help in a timely manner.
Some of the diseases that can cause low body temperature include:
- Hypothyroidism – insufficient thyroid gland function, leading to a slowdown in metabolism.
- Infectious diseases – some infections, such as sepsis, can lead to changes in temperature regulation.
- Adrenal adenoma – this condition can affect cortisol levels, which also impacts thermoregulation.
- Neurological disorders – damage to the brain or spinal cord can disrupt thermoregulation.
- Chronic liver or kidney disease – such diseases can affect the overall state of the body and thermoregulation.
When observing symptoms related to low body temperature, it is essential not to ignore this condition and to promptly consult specialists. Quality diagnosis and timely treatment can help prevent serious complications and improve overall health status.
Diagnosis
A low body temperature can be a sign of various diseases and conditions, so accurate diagnosis is an important step in determining the cause of this symptom. Usually, the first thing a doctor does is perform a physical examination and gather the patient’s medical history. It is important to consider not only the temperature readings but also the presence of other symptoms, such as weakness, headache, chills, or mood changes. Based on the collected information, the doctor may recommend a comprehensive examination to identify possible pathologies.
For more detailed diagnosis, various laboratory and instrumental studies may be prescribed. This will help to rule out diseases causing low body temperature and allow for the development of an appropriate treatment plan. It is important to remember that the individual characteristics of each person can affect temperature readings; therefore, the approach to each patient should be strictly individualized.
- Complete blood count
- Biochemical blood analysis
- Thyroid hormone level test
- Chest X-ray
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Tests for infectious diseases
Which doctor to contact
Low body temperature, or hypothermia, can be a sign of various diseases, and for accurate diagnosis and treatment, it is important to consult a specialist. Depending on accompanying symptoms, the doctor may vary. Pathological low body temperature may indicate disorders in the endocrine system, infections, or even autoimmune diseases, making it necessary to undergo initial examination by a therapist.
The therapist will conduct a general examination, analyze the patient’s complaints, and, if necessary, refer them to narrow specialists for further diagnosis. If the cause of hypothermia is an endocrine disease, a consultation with an endocrinologist may be required, while viral or bacterial infections will need the intervention of an infectious disease specialist. In case of suspicion of autoimmune processes or hematological issues, a consultation with a hematologist or rheumatologist may be indicated.
- Therapist
- Endocrinologist
- Infectious disease specialist
- Hematologist
- Rheumatologist
Types of Low Body Temperature
Low body temperature, also known as hypothermia, can manifest in different forms depending on the causes and characteristics of the patient’s body. Each form has its own characteristics and requires an individualized approach to treatment. The differences in the types of hypothermia help the doctor determine the main source of the problem and choose the best method of therapy.
There are several types of low body temperature, including physiological and pathological hypothermia. Physiological hypothermia is often observed in people exposed to low temperatures or during intense physical exertion when the body loses heat faster than it can replenish it. Pathological hypothermia can arise from diseases that disrupt thermoregulation, such as endocrine disorders or infectious diseases. Each of these types requires careful diagnosis and adequate medical intervention.
- Physiological hypothermia
- Pathological hypothermia
- Hypothermia caused by infectious diseases
- Hypothermia due to metabolic disorders
- Hypothermia against the background of endocrine disorders
Causes of Low Body Temperature
Low body temperature, or hypothermia, can be caused by various factors that can be divided into several categories. One of the main reasons is exposure to a cold environment, which can lead to loss of body heat, especially if a person is not dressed appropriately for the season or is in low-temperature conditions for a long time. It is also important to consider that age and physical condition can affect the body’s ability to maintain a normal temperature.
Additionally, some diseases and health conditions can be a cause of low body temperature. Endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, in which the production of thyroid hormones is reduced, can lead to a slowed metabolism and, consequently, to a decrease in temperature. Medical causes can also include infections, anemia, and skin diseases that can disrupt the body’s thermoregulation.
- Hypothyroidism
- Anemia
- Infections
- Lack of vitamins and minerals
- Adrenal gland diseases
- Alcoholism
- Cardiovascular diseases
Common Related Pathologies
Low body temperature, or hypothermia, can be a symptom of various diseases and pathological conditions. It is not always a standalone problem, often signaling more serious disruptions in the body. One of the common pathologies associated with low temperature is hypothyroidism – a condition caused by insufficient hormone production by the thyroid gland, leading to a slowdown in metabolism and reduced heat production.
Low temperature can also be a sign of infectious diseases, especially during the acute phase. For example, in severe infections such as sepsis, the body may not be able to maintain normal temperature due to rapid resource depletion. Other conditions, such as severe anemia, can also cause hypothermia, as a lack of oxygen in the blood negatively affects the body’s thermoregulation.
- Hypothyroidism
- Sepsis
- Severe anemia
- Adrenal pathologies (e.g., Addison’s disease)
- Neurological disorders (strokes, brain injuries)
- Alcohol intoxication
- Overdose of certain medications (e.g., sedatives)
Expert Opinion
Low body temperature, or hypothermia, can be just as serious as a high temperature. As many medical experts point out, such conditions require careful attention to diagnosis and treatment. Low temperature may be a signal of various pathologies, ranging from endocrine disorders to infections. It’s important to remember that healthy individuals, especially athletes or those engaged in intense physical work, may experience a natural drop in temperature. However, in any questionable cases, it is essential to consult a specialist.
Dr. Irina Serova, a thermologist, warns that such symptoms do not always indicate obvious diseases. Hypothermia may result from improper nutrition, stress, or even climatic conditions. It is also important to take into account the individual characteristics of the patient’s body. It is crucial not only to identify the causes of low temperature but also to work on their elimination to prevent possible consequences.
For accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment, it is necessary to monitor the dynamics of the patient’s condition, regularly conduct control temperature measurements, and have consultations with specialized professionals. The collaboration of a nutritionist, endocrinologist, and therapist can play a decisive role in restoring normal body temperature and overall health status.
Treatment of Low Body Temperature
The treatment of low body temperature depends on the identified cause of this symptom. If low temperature is caused by temporary factors such as hypothermia or fatigue, it is sufficient to provide the person with comfortable conditions: warmth, rest, and relaxation. It is also important to pay attention to nutrition, which should be balanced and contain the necessary vitamins and minerals.
If the low body temperature is linked to diseases such as endocrine disorders, infections, or other pathologies, it is necessary to consult a doctor who can prescribe the appropriate treatment. Often, treatment includes medication therapy, physiotherapeutic procedures, or a diet. In some cases, hospitalization may be required for observation and intensive treatment.
- Correction of nutrition and vitamin supplementation
- Medication treatment for the underlying condition
- Physiotherapeutic procedures
- Rehabilitation courses in medical institutions
- Monitoring of the body’s condition.
Complications
Low body temperature (hypothermia) can lead to various complications that can significantly affect a person’s health. With prolonged exposure to low temperatures, a person may experience various disturbances in the central nervous system and internal organs. This can lead to loss of consciousness, a slowing heart rate, and even cardiac arrest, which requires urgent medical attention.
Additionally, constant hypothermia can worsen the condition of the immune system, increasing the risk of infectious diseases. It should also be noted that low temperatures can negatively impact metabolism and cause serious endocrine disorders. All this indicates that ignoring low body temperature and the lack of proper treatment can lead to serious consequences.
- Cardiac arrest
- Loss of consciousness
- Decreased immune protection
- Endocrine disorders
- Exacerbation of chronic diseases
FAQ
What to do with low body temperature and when to see a doctor?
In case of low body temperature, it is important first to evaluate your condition and determine whether the drop in temperature is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, or chills. If you experience such symptoms or if the temperature remains below normal for an extended period, it is advisable to consult a doctor to identify the cause. To raise your temperature, you can try using means such as hot beverages and warm clothing, however, if the condition does not improve or worsens, medical assistance is necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of possible diseases.
What are the possible causes of low body temperature in adults and children?
Lower body temperature in adults and children can be caused by a variety of factors. Such causes include hypothermia due to prolonged exposure to cold, as well as various diseases such as hypothyroidism, infectious diseases, or neurological disorders. Additionally, low temperature can develop against a background of inadequate nutrition, as well as during prolonged fasting or vitamin deficiency. It is important to consider individual characteristics of the body, as some people may have a stable low temperature without any pathologies.
What is hypothermia and how is it related to low body temperature?
Hypothermia is a condition in which the human body temperature drops below the normal level, which can lead to serious health consequences. Usually, the normal body temperature ranges from 36.1 to 37.2°C, and when it drops to 35°C and below, the risk of hypothermia begins. This condition can arise for various reasons, including prolonged exposure to cold, medical factors such as endocrine disorders or severe infections, as well as a lack of adequate nutrition. It is important to understand that hypothermia requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications and restore normal body temperature.
What are the symptoms of low body temperature and how to recognize them?
Lowered body temperature can manifest through various symptoms that are important to recognize. The main symptoms include severe shivering, feeling cold even in a warm room, fatigue and drowsiness, as well as changes in skin color, which may become paler or even bluish. When the temperature falls below 35°C, more serious symptoms may arise, such as confusion, slowed heart rate, and breathing. If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.