Mountain Living

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them thaw and refreeze. Self-evacuation may be tactically necessary. Walking on frozen feet
does less harm than walking on thawed feet.
If reheating is inevitable, do not overheat the affected body parts near flame; the warming
temperature should not be greater than normal body temperature. Do not rub the parts―the
crystallized tissues may break internally and cause more damage. Do not pop blisters; cover
them with a dry, sterile dressing. Keep the victim warm (apply loose, bulky bandages to separate
toes and fingers.)
Once a part is rewarmed it will become painful. Pain may be managed with narcotic analgesics.
Once the foot is rewarmed it will swell and putting the boot back on will not be possible.

Constipation
2-101. Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passage of stools.
Contributing Factors
2-102. Factors that contribute to constipation are a lack of fluids, improper nutrition, and not defecating
when needed.
Symptoms
2-103. Symptoms include headache, cramping, lack of bowel movement, painful bowel movement, and
loss of appetite.
Treatment
2-104. Constipation is prevented by consuming adequate amounts and varieties of food, drinking from
four to six liters of liquid each day, and defecating regularly. If allowed to progress beyond self-care stages,
victims will need medical aid.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
2-105. This is the replacement of oxygen in the blood with carbon monoxide.
Contributing Factor
2-106. A contributing factor is inhaling fumes from burning fuel, such as fires, stoves, heaters, and
running engines, without proper ventilation.
Symptoms
2-107. Symptoms are similar to other common illnesses and include headaches, fatigue, excessive
yawning, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and unconsciousness. Death may occur. The one visible
symptom is bright red lips, mouth, and inside of the eyelids.
Treatment
2-108. Remove the victim from the source of contamination; administer oxygen, if available; and
evacuate to a medical facility. Severe complications may develop even in casualties who appear to have
recovered. If the victim is unconscious, administer rescue breathing and CPR as needed.

HEAT INJURIES
2-109. Heat injuries, although associated with hot weather, can occur in cold-weather environments. Most
heat injuries can be avoided by planning, periodically inspecting personnel clothing (ventilation) and
equipment, balancing water and food intake, and resting.

26 July 2012

TC 3-97.61

2-21