Normal body temperature for an adult – know the average interval and how to measure it precisely to evaluate your health.

Body temperature is an important indicator of general health and is often used as a diagnostic tool in medical environments. In adults, the normal body temperature interval can vary slightly depending on factors such as age and time. Normally, it is considered that the normal body temperature of an adult ranges between 36. 5 ° C (97. 8 ° F) and 37. 2 ° C (99 ° F).

Measurement methods:

1. Oral: Oral temperature measurement is one of the most common methods. The thermometer is placed under the tongue and remains in place until a reading is obtained.
2. Axillar: The axillary temperature measurement consists of placing a thermometer in the armpit. This method is usually used in babies and young children.
3. Rectal: The rectal temperature measurement provides the most precise reading, but usually reserved for infants and young children.

Factors that affect body temperature

It is important to keep in mind that body temperature alone is not always indicative of disease. When evaluating a person’s health status, other medical symptoms and evaluations must be taken into account.

What is the Normal Body Temperature for an Adult?

According to a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, the normal average body temperature of adults is slightly lower, around 36. 5 ° C (97. 7 ° F). However, it is important to keep in mind that individual variation is significant and that body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors such as physical activity, stress and hormonal changes. Therefore, when talking about normal body temperature it is more appropriate to use an interval than a specific value.

Important information:

1. Normal body temperature can vary slightly from one person to another.
2. The average normal body temperature of adults is approximately 36. 5 ° C (97. 7 ° F).
3. Individual variations and external factors can cause fluctuations in body temperature throughout the day.

Understanding Body Temperature

Regulation of body temperature

The human body is a master at maintaining thermal balance, balancing heat production and loss to maintain body temperature within a narrow range. This process is mainly controlled by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain. In response to internal and external stimuli, the hypothalamus orchestrates a series of physiological mechanisms to adjust body temperature.

• Vasodilation: The dilation of blood vessels near the surface of the skin helps dissipate radiation heat.
• Vasoconstriction: Constriction of blood vessels redirects blood flow away from the skin, conserving heat in cold environments.
• Sweating: Evaporation of sweat from the skin cools the body.
• Chills: Rapid muscle contractions generate heat to compensate for the drop in body temperature.

Normal temperature in adults

It is essential to distinguish between core body temperature and oral temperature when discussing normal temperature ranges. Core body temperature refers to the temperature of the internal organs, while oral temperature is measured by placing a thermometer under the tongue. Typically, oral temperature is 0. 5 to 1 degree Fahrenheit lower than core body temperature.

The Importance of Maintaining a Normal Body Temperature

One of the main reasons why it is important to maintain a normal body temperature is because it directly influences enzyme activity, metabolism and various cellular processes in the body. Enzymes, which are essential for various physiological functions, work most effectively within a specific temperature range. Deviations from normal body temperature can hinder enzymatic activity, leading to disruption of metabolic processes and possible complications.

Fact: The normal body temperature for an adult is usually around 37°C (98. 6°F). However, this temperature may vary slightly depending on individual factors such as age, activity level, and underlying illnesses.

• Maintaining a normal body temperature is crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system. Studies have shown that certain immune cells function optimally within the normal body temperature range, allowing them to effectively fight pathogens and reduce the risk of infections.
• A normal body temperature also promotes optimal organ function. Important organs such as the heart, brain and liver require a specific temperature environment to carry out their vital functions effectively. Any drastic increase or decrease in body temperature can cause organic dysfunction and possible complications.

Table 1 illustrates the possible consequences of both hypothermia (low body temperature) and hyperthermia (high body temperature) on various body systems, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a normal body temperature.

Factors Affecting Body Temperature

In medical terms, body temperature refers to the measurement of the body’s average internal heat. The normal body temperature of an adult is between 36. 5°C and 37. 5°C (97. 7°F and 99. 5°F). However, there are several factors that can influence and affect a person’s body temperature, causing variations with respect to the normal range.

Metabolic rate: The metabolic rate of an individual plays a vital role in determining body temperature. Metabolism refers to the chemical processes that occur in the body to maintain life. Higher metabolic rates increase body heat production, which results in a higher body temperature. In contrast, a lower metabolic rate reduces heat production and lowers body temperature.

Tip: People who are physically active or have a high basal metabolic rate may experience a slightly elevated body temperature.

• Hormonal fluctuations: Hormones play a crucial role in regulating body temperature. Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during menstruation or menopause in women, can cause fluctuations in body temperature. Additionally, conditions such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Environmental factors: The environment in which an individual is located can significantly influence their body temperature. Exposure to extreme temperatures, whether cold or warm, can cause variations in body temperature. In hot environments, the body tries to cool itself by sweating, while in cold environments, it tries to conserve heat by constricting blood vessels.

1. Infection and inflammation: Infectious diseases, such as the flu or urinary tract infections, can cause an increase in body temperature. This response is the body’s way of defending itself against invading pathogens. Additionally, inflammation caused by injury or chronic illness can also cause an increase in body temperature.
2. Medications: Certain medications can affect body temperature regulation. For example, some antibiotics and medications used to treat hypertension can cause fluctuations in body temperature as a side effect.
3. Stress and emotions: Emotional and psychological factors can influence body temperature. Stress, anxiety and excitement can trigger the release of stress hormones, which can cause an increase in body temperature.

For healthcare professionals to accurately diagnose and monitor patients’ health, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of the various factors that affect body temperature. Taking these factors into account, healthcare professionals can assess the significance of deviations from the normal range of body temperature and determine appropriate interventions.

Measuring Body Temperature

1. Oral temperature:

• Measuring oral temperature involves placing a thermometer under the tongue and closing the mouth.
• It is a widely used and relatively comfortable method, making it suitable for both home and clinical settings.
• The average oral temperature of a healthy adult ranges between 36. 4°C (97. 6°F) and 37. 6°C (99. 6°F).

2. Rectal temperature:

• Measuring rectal temperature involves inserting a thermometer into the rectum.
• This method provides the most accurate measurement of core body temperature.
• The normal rectal temperature for an adult is slightly higher, ranging from 98. 6°F (37°C) to 100. 6°F (38. 1°C).

It is important to note that normal body temperature can vary slightly depending on factors such as age, time of day, and physical activity levels. Therefore, it is crucial to establish a person’s basal temperature before interpreting any measurement.

Recognizing Abnormal Body Temperatures

1. Elevated body temperature: An abnormally high body temperature, commonly called fever, can be indicative of various diseases or infections. It is essential to recognize the symptoms associated with a high body temperature, such as headache, sweating, chills, muscle pain and general feeling of discomfort. These symptoms may be aggravated by additional signs of infection, such as cough, sore throat, or runny nose. Fever may also be accompanied by redness or warmth in specific areas of the body, suggesting localized infections or inflammation.

Note: Patients with fever should seek medical attention if body temperature exceeds 38°C (100. 4°F) or persists for more than 48 hours. High fever may be an indication of serious infections, such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections, and medical intervention is necessary to prevent further complications.

2. 2. Hypothermia: Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below normal values. This condition can have serious consequences and must be recognized quickly. Symptoms of hypothermia include chills, confusion, drowsiness, slowness of movement, and slurred speech. In severe cases, hypothermia can lead to loss of consciousness or even organ failure.

Note: It is important to seek immediate medical attention if a person develops symptoms of hypothermia with a body temperature below 95°F (35°C). Hypothermia can occur due to prolonged exposure to cold environments, certain medical conditions, or as a side effect of medication, and prompt treatment is crucial to avoid life-threatening complications.

3. 3. Hyperthermia: Hyperthermia refers to an abnormally high body temperature that may result from excessive exposure to heat or prolonged physical exertion. Unlike fever, which is usually due to an internal response to an infection, hyperthermia is caused primarily by external factors. It is important to recognize the signs of hyperthermia, which may include excessive sweating, tachycardia, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Severe cases can cause heat stroke, characterized by an altered mental state and possible organ damage.

Note: A person experiencing hyperthermia should be immediately moved to a cooler environment and seek medical assistance. It is crucial to treat hyperthermia promptly to avoid serious complications, such as fatigue, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses such as exhaustion or heat stroke.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Abnormal Body Temperature

An extremely high body temperature, also known as hyperthermia, can be a sign of a severe medical emergency. If your body temperature exceeds 40 ° C (104 ° F), it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Hyperthermia can cause a heat stroke, damage to the organs and even death if it is not treated in time. It is important to regularly control body temperature, especially when it is hot or after performing intense physical activity.

On the other hand, a persistently low body temperature, called hypothermia, can also be worrying. If your body temperature descends below 35 ° C (95 ° F) and experiences symptoms such as chills, confusion, drowsiness or difficulty breathing, it is essential that you look for medical help, since they can indicate a serious condition. Hypothermia may be due to exposure to cold, certain medications, alcohol consumption or underlying health problems. It is important not to ignore these symptoms, since hypothermia can cause freezing, hypoglycemia or heart problems.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Abnormal Body Temperature:

1. If the body temperature exceeds 40 ° C (104 ° F).
2. If your body temperature drops below 35 ° C (95 ° F) and experiences symptoms such as chills, confusion, drowsiness or difficulty breathing.
3. If it has a high or low body temperature persistently, although it does not reach the extreme levels mentioned above.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont