Which signs indicate severe hypothermia?

Severe hypothermia is characterized by a significant drop in body temperature, typically below 95°F (35°C), which leads to serious physiological changes. One of the hallmark signs of severe hypothermia is the cessation of shivering. This is an important aspect because shivering is the body's natural response to generate heat. When a person reaches severe hypothermia, their body can no longer produce heat effectively, leading to the absence of shivering.

Additionally, severe hypothermia can impair motor function, causing weakness, clumsiness, or even an inability to walk, as the body's systems begin to shut down. This combination of no shivering and considerable difficulty with movement is indicative of a severe condition that requires immediate intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.

In contrast, the other signs mentioned in the options do not align with severe hypothermia. For example, while shivering and confusion might be present in mild to moderate hypothermia, they do not signify the severity of the condition as the absence of shivering does. Mild fatigue and loss of appetite are also more characteristic of less severe stages, and difficulty breathing and sweating are not typical signs of hypothermia but rather indicate other medical concerns. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for recognizing and