Medicine: The Hiker's Hazard

Ignoring her hunger, Joan continued to climb. She was anxious to reach the summit of New Hampshire's 5,363-ft. Mount Madison and unwilling to delay her hiking companions. By midafternoon, she felt tired and dizzy; a few minutes later, after a shower had soaked her and her companions, she sat down, complaining of weakness and nausea. Concerned, some of her fellow hikers wrapped her in a poncho while others went for help. By the time rescuers arrived, Joan was shivering and unable to answer questions, her body temperature down to 95.8° and falling. Rushing...