What is hypothermia?

Hypothermia is characterized as a serious medical condition that occurs when the body's core temperature falls below the normal range, typically due to prolonged exposure to cold environments or cold water immersion. Symptoms can include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, slowed heart rate, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. It is critical to understand that hypothermia can progress quickly and can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Thus, medical attention is essential for anyone exhibiting symptoms associated with hypothermia, emphasizing the severity of this condition compared to less critical reactions to cold.

The other options describe scenarios that are not aligned with the definition of hypothermia; they refer to minor cold discomforts rather than the dangerous and potentially fatal effects of significant heat loss. For example, a mild chill that passes quickly or a minor reaction to cold air does not entail the health risks associated with hypothermia, and conditions caused by excessive heat exposure are unrelated.