True or False: When suffering from hypothermia, applying heat to the arms or legs can be fatal.

In cases of hypothermia, the body experiences a significant drop in temperature, which can lead to life-threatening complications. One of the critical aspects of treating hypothermia is to apply warmth gradually and evenly to the body. When heat is applied directly to the arms or legs of a person suffering from this condition, it can cause the blood vessels in those limbs to dilate rapidly. This dilation allows the warm blood from the core to circulate towards the extremities.

If this process occurs too quickly, it can lead to a dangerous drop in core body temperature, which may result in cardiac arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest. This phenomenon is particularly dangerous because it can create a cycle where the body moves warm blood outward, further cooling the vital organs. Therefore, applying heat to the extremities can indeed be fatal if not managed properly, making the statement true. This highlights the importance of appropriate medical intervention and a careful, monitored approach when rewarming someone with hypothermia.