What is the normal rectal temperature?

　　Rectal temperature is typically slightly higher than surface (skin) temperature. Current hemorrhoidal suppositories—such as Puji Hemorrhoid Suppositories—contain borneol and rhubarb, which help alleviate “excess internal heat.” So, what is considered a normal rectal temperature?

　　What Is a Normal Rectal Temperature?

　　A normal rectal temperature ranges from 36.5°C to 37.7°C. Body temperature is not constant and can be influenced by numerous factors. Variations occur due to the time of day (e.g., morning vs. evening), age, and emotional state. In the early morning, after 6–8 hours of sleep, the body has not yet fully emerged from deep sleep, and gastrointestinal activity remains subdued; consequently, basal body temperature reaches its lowest point over the 24-hour cycle.

　　The normal range for rectal temperature is 36.0°C to 37.7°C. A rectal temperature ≥37.8°C indicates fever. If rectal temperature falls between 37.8°C and 38.9°C, antipyretic treatment with traditional Chinese patent medicines—such as Bupleurum Granules, Niuhuang Qingxin Powder, or Saiga Antelope Horn Granules—may be appropriate. Physical cooling measures (e.g., tepid sponging) may also be used. A rectal temperature above 39.0°C constitutes high-grade fever and requires urgent intervention. Oral administration of ibuprofen or acetaminophen is commonly recommended for fever reduction; physical cooling methods may be employed as adjunctive therapy.

　　Young and middle-aged adults who regularly exercise tend to have a faster metabolic rate, resulting in a slight elevation in baseline body temperature; however, temperature naturally declines somewhat during sleep. We hope this information proves helpful.