Which of the following is a sign of hypothermia?

Hypothermia is a medical condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerously low body temperature. One of the primary signs of hypothermia is shivering. Shivering is the body's natural response to generate heat through muscle activity as a way to counteract the drop in core temperature. In the initial stages of hypothermia, shivering serves as a mechanism to help maintain normal body temperature.

As hypothermia progresses, however, the individual may stop shivering altogether, signaling a serious situation. The other signs mentioned—hot skin, extreme thirst, and dry mouth—are not typically associated with hypothermia. Hot skin usually indicates heat exhaustion or heat stroke, while extreme thirst and dry mouth are more commonly related to dehydration rather than the body’s response to cold temperatures. Recognizing shivering as a sign of hypothermia is crucial for early intervention and treatment, which can include warming the individual and providing appropriate medical care.