Is Hypothermia a Symptom of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

It is a common belief that COVID-19 primarily causes hyperthermia or fever, but what about hypothermia? Can this unexpected and concerning condition also be linked to the virus? This article aims to explore the connection between hypothermia and COVID-19, distinguishing fact from fiction.

Understanding Hypothermia

Hypothermia is defined as a dangerously low body temperature, typically below 95°F (35°C). It can occur when a person is exposed to extremely cold weather, is overexposed to water in cold conditions, or has a medical condition that makes them vulnerable to cold. Hypothermia can be fatal and requires immediate medical attention.

Understanding COVID-19 Symptoms

The symptoms of COVID-19 vary widely and can include:

Fever and chills Cough Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Fatigue Muscle or body aches New loss of taste or smell Sore throat Congestion or runny nose Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea

Fever and chills are the most common symptoms, as your body mounts an immune response to fight the virus. However, the virus can also impair circulation to limbs and other body parts, leading to a person feeling cold even when their core temperature is not dangerously low.

Can Hypothermia Be a Symptom of COVID-19?

Some individuals have reported experiencing a drop in body temperature, leading to concerns about hypothermia. However, the evidence suggests that hypothermia is very unlikely to be a direct symptom of COVID-19. Here’s why:

True hypothermia is a medical emergency. It generally requires exposure to cold or moisture in cold conditions, which is not specific to COVID-19. While COVID-19 can impair circulation, leading to a feeling of coldness, it does not typically cause a drop in core body temperature to the point of medical emergency. Circulatory issues caused by COVID-19 may result in feeling cold even at normal body temperatures. This is often a result of the virus affecting the lungs and reducing blood flow, leading to a slower recovery process and a sensation of coldness. Hypothermia is not a common occurrence among patients with COVID-19. Most cases of hypothermia in the context of COVID-19 are likely the result of other factors, such as the patient being in a cold environment or having a pre-existing condition that makes them more susceptible to cold.

Furthermore, patients have reported experiencing chills and a feeling of not warming up, which is common among people with high fevers.

Prevention and Management

To prevent and manage the effects of hypothermia and COVID-19:

Maintain a healthy body temperature with appropriate clothing and insulation. Avoid exposure to cold and wet conditions. Stay warm in cold environments, especially if you have risk factors for hypothermia. Monitor yourself and others for COVID-19 symptoms and seek medical advice if you experience persistent symptoms.

It is crucial to stay vigilant and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms, as even changes in body temperature can be a sign of a medical issue that requires professional evaluation.

Conclusion

While it is concerning to experience a drop in body temperature, it is very unlikely that hypothermia is a direct symptom of COVID-19. Circulatory issues and reduced blood flow can cause a sensation of coldness, but true hypothermia is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you or someone you know is experiencing a drop in temperature that is causing concern, contact a healthcare provider for guidance.