Hello! Extreme cold temperatures are affecting many parts of
the USA. Below is some basic information on Hypothermia and Frostbite.

Hypothermia- Cold, dry air can trigger bronchospasm, coughing,
chest tightness, and shortness of breath 
 • Inflamed or damaged airways lose heat and moisture faster
 • Cold causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing oxygen
delivery 
 • People with already-limited lung function may feel sudden
fatigue, dizziness, and worsening breathlessness. 
 • Cold exposure can weaken immune defenses in the airways 
 • Thickened mucus becomes harder to clear → higher risk of
exacerbations or infections

Hypothermia early symptoms: Shivering (may stop as it
worsens)

• Slurred speech, confusion, or brain fog 
 • Rapid breathing at first → slow, shallow breathing later

• Blue or pale lips/fingertips

Frostbite most often affects an individual’s fingers, toes,
nose, and ears. Respiratory

patients are at higher risk because: 
 • Reduced circulation from chronic illness or medications 
 • Fatigue may delay noticing symptoms 
Early frostbite signs: • Numbness or tingling

• Skin turning pale, white, or waxy

• Loss of fine motor control. 
Cold-weather protection that actually helps: Cover your airways-wear
a scarf, gaiter, or mask over nose & mouth→ warms and humidifies inhaled
air. Protect extremities• Mittens, gloves, cover your ears fully, wear
insulated socks, layer your clothing. 
Stay warm and safe throughout this cold
spell. For more information, please see the link below: 
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15439-frostbite