complications

Last reviewed 01/2018

Possible complications of hypothermia include:

  • pulmonary complications:
    • bronchopneumonia
    • pulmonary oedema or pulmonary hypertension may be induced by rapid rewarming

  • cardiac complications:
    • bradyarrhythmias
    • atrial fibrillation
    • ventricular fibrillation

  • metabolic complications:
    • hypercapnia
    • acidosis
    • hypoxia
    • hypoglycaemia

  • gastrointestinal complications:
    • gastric or colonic dilatation
    • possible pancreatitis

  • rigidity of muscles

  • frostbite

  • disseminated intravascular coagulation