is it true that dangerously cold temperatures can get inside the lungs and freeze them?
2007-12-06 02:04:37 · 4 answers · asked by KU! 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Weather
Yes it is true but a healthy body normally can take care of this with out significant damage.
In order to really cause serious damage, the air temperature would have to be below about -20 F (-29 C) and the person would have to have nose and mouth unprotected and panting heavily due to exertion.
Colder temperatures on the order of -50 F (-46 c) can cause problems very quickly but all that is needed is a face mask (heavy scarf over mouth and nose will work) that would help pre-warm the air as it is drawn into the body.
The worst temperature I have experienced was -32 F (-35 C) and although it was cold I had a heavy scarf on and even though I was out about 2 hours, I was fairly well prepared and had no problems. I would have stayed out longer but I got the work done and didn't need to be out risking it, so to speak.
2007-12-06 02:25:16 · answer #1 · answered by Water 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are partially right.
In asthmatics, their immune systems are often very reactive to cold temperatures. The colder the temperature, the more dry their lungs are, and this could set up a stage for asthma.
In hypothermia, yes, the lungs can freeze......and when that happens, the lungs shut down, and this can lead to heart problems because the lungs are partially correlated to the heart. Most likely, the heart could shut down too...and you know what that means......heart failure. But it depends if the person with hypothermia has a heart that can take this cold abuse.
2007-12-06 12:31:11 · answer #2 · answered by charlessmith702210@sbcglobal.net 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, Lungs contain moisture so if the air is cold enough and a person took a deep enough breath to not allow the air to heat up as it enters the body. Lowered body temperature could also contribute.
2007-12-06 10:11:32 · answer #3 · answered by Truth is elusive 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its not quite like that
But yes very cold temps can damage the lungs like any tissue. Our bodies are designed to warm the air we breathe but if it is very very cold we can not warm there air
its all part of hypothermia
Its not fun
Though I think you don't have much to worry about
2007-12-06 10:13:00 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋