[News Terms] Cold-Related Illness

Diseases Caused Directly by Cold Exposure
48 Cold-Related Patients Reported This Month...Special Caution Required

Card News 'Beware of Cold-Related Illnesses!'.
[Photo by Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Hyunjung] Cold-related illnesses refer to diseases caused directly by cold temperatures that harm the body. Representative examples include hypothermia, frostbite, chilblains, immersion foot, and immersion hand.

Hypothermia, a systemic condition, occurs when the temperature of internal organs or muscles drops below 35 degrees Celsius. In the early stages, the body shivers severely, and as the temperature drops further, speech becomes slurred and memory loss occurs. In severe cases, it can lead to death.

When directly exposed to severe cold between -2°C and 10°C, body fluids can reach their freezing point, damaging the skin and skin tissues. This condition is called frostbite. The skin gradually turns red and then loses sensation. It mainly appears on exposed areas such as the nose, ears, cheeks, jaw, fingers, and toes, and in severe cases, amputation may be necessary.

Chilblains, immersion hand, and immersion foot may appear frozen, but the tissues remain normal. Chilblains refer to an inflammatory reaction caused by peripheral blood flow disorders due to continuous exposure to damp and mild cold (0°C to 10°C). When the skin itches after cold exposure, it is often chilblains rather than frostbite. Immersion foot and immersion hand are injuries such as skin maceration caused by prolonged exposure of hands or feet to water below 10°C.

Elderly people and children have more difficulty maintaining body temperature than adults, so they should avoid outdoor activities during cold waves and pay attention to keeping warm. Additionally, people with chronic diseases are at high risk of symptom worsening, such as rapid increases in blood pressure, so they should avoid sudden exposure to cold or excessive activity.

Since cold-related illnesses can also occur indoors, it is advisable to maintain an appropriate indoor temperature (18°C to 20°C). In low-temperature workplaces, multiple layers of thermal underwear should be worn, and extra clothes and socks should be prepared to change into if they become wet with sweat or water.

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 15th, 48 cold-related illness cases were recorded from the 1st to the 14th of this month. This is 17 more than the 31 cases during the same period last year. The estimated number of deaths is 4, whereas there were no estimated deaths during the same period last year. Due to the recurring cold spells recently, the number of cold-related illnesses is expected to increase further, requiring special caution.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.