Fluid Balance and Physical Work Capacity in Humans Exposed to Cold

Abstract

The influence of cold on normal persons was studied in climate-chamber experiments under strictly standardized conditions. Even under moderate cold there occurred an increase in urine flow to a greater extent than could be explained by reduced insensible water loss, leading to a negative water balance, orthostatism, and reduced physical work capacity.

The diuresis was shown to be an osmolal diuresis, accompanied by an increased excretion of sodium, chloride, potassium, calcium, and phosphate together standing for more than 80% of the increased osmolal excretion.