What happens to the body temperature when severe hypothermia occurs?

Severe hypothermia is characterized by a significant drop in body temperature, typically below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). When hypothermia becomes severe, body temperature can fall to critical levels, often reaching below 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius). At these extremely low temperatures, physiological processes in the body become severely impaired, leading to a diminished metabolic rate, reduced heart rate, and potential loss of consciousness. This drop in temperature can severely affect the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis and can be life-threatening, making it essential to recognize and treat hypothermia promptly.