Too Low a Temperature? How It Affects the Body
Too Low a Temperature? How It Affects the Body
When the temperature drops, the body reacts immediately. We start to shiver, our skin feels cold, and our fingers and toes become stiff. But what actually happens inside the body when it’s exposed to cold – and when does it become dangerous? Here’s an overview of how low temperatures affect the body and how you can protect yourself from the cold.
The Body’s Natural Response to Cold
The human body works constantly to maintain an internal temperature of around 37°C. When the surroundings get colder, the body tries to preserve heat by narrowing the blood vessels in the skin and extremities. This means that hands, feet, nose, and ears cool down quickly – but it helps keep the vital organs warm.
At the same time, the muscles begin to shiver. Shivering consists of small, rapid muscle contractions that generate heat and help raise body temperature. It’s the body’s first line of defence against the cold, but it uses a lot of energy and can’t be sustained indefinitely.
When the Body Becomes Too Cold
If the body is exposed to cold for too long and loses heat faster than it can produce it, the core temperature begins to fall. Once it drops to around 35°C, this is known as mild hypothermia. Symptoms may include:
- Shivering and chills
- Numbness in fingers and toes
- Fatigue and reduced concentration
- Slower movements and speech
With moderate hypothermia (32–35°C), shivering often stops because the muscles can no longer respond. The person may appear confused, drowsy, and uncoordinated. If the temperature continues to fall, it can become life-threatening as the heart and brain begin to fail.
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Cold and the Circulatory System
When blood vessels constrict, blood pressure temporarily rises. For people with heart conditions, this can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. The heart also has to work harder to pump blood around the body, which can be a strain – especially for older adults or those with cardiovascular disease.
Cold also affects how efficiently the blood carries oxygen. This can lead to tiredness and reduced physical performance, even with mild cooling.
Frostbite – When Tissue Freezes
In very low temperatures, the skin and underlying tissue can freeze. This usually happens on exposed areas such as fingers, toes, nose, and cheeks. Frostbite often begins with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by numbness. The skin may turn pale or white, and in severe cases, blisters or tissue damage can occur.
If you suspect frostbite, warm the area gradually – ideally using body heat, not direct heat such as hot water or a radiator, as this can worsen the injury.
Cold and Indoor Temperature
Even indoors, low temperatures can affect the body. If your home is too cold – typically below 18°C – it can cause muscle and joint stiffness, discomfort, and in some cases increase the risk of respiratory infections. Older people and young children are particularly vulnerable, as their bodies find it harder to regulate temperature.
Maintaining a stable and comfortable indoor temperature is therefore important – not just for comfort, but also for health. A well-insulated home, proper heating, and even heat distribution can make a big difference.
How to Protect Yourself from the Cold
There are several simple ways to help your body stay warm:
- Dress in layers – several thin layers insulate better than one thick one.
- Keep your head, hands, and feet warm – these areas lose heat quickly.
- Eat and drink regularly – your body needs energy to produce heat.
- Stay active – movement boosts circulation and warmth.
- Avoid dampness – wet clothing or sweat can quickly lead to cooling.
Indoors, use blankets, draught excluders, and curtains to retain heat, and make sure your heating system is working efficiently.
When the Cold Becomes Dangerous
Most people can tolerate short periods of cold without problems, but prolonged exposure can be serious. If you or someone else shows signs of confusion, drowsiness, or stops shivering, seek medical help immediately. Hypothermia develops gradually but can have severe consequences if left untreated.
Cold weather is a normal part of the British climate, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can protect your body and stay safe – both outdoors and at home.
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