What defines hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a medical condition that occurs when the body's core temperature falls below the normal range, typically defined as below 35°C (95°F). This can happen in cold water or when a person is exposed to low temperatures for extended periods, resulting in the body losing heat faster than it can produce it. It is crucial to recognize hypothermia early, as it can lead to severe complications or even death if not treated promptly.

In contrast to the other options, which describe different physiological states or conditions, the defining characteristic of hypothermia is specifically related to a drop in core body temperature. For instance, overheating is related to heat-related illnesses rather than hypothermia, and loss of consciousness in cold water can be a consequence of hypothermia but does not define it. Excessive sweating is a sign of the body attempting to cool down, which again does not pertain to the definition of hypothermia. Therefore, the correct understanding of hypothermia centers around the drop in core body temperature, making the provided choice accurate.