Is an axillary body temperature of 37.1°C normal for adults?

An adult's axillary body temperature of 37.1°C may be normal or abnormal.

1. Normal

Under normal circumstances, an adult's axillary body temperature should range between 36°C and 37°C. Due to various factors, body temperature can fluctuate within a 24-hour period, though the variation typically does not exceed 1°C. For example, body temperature tends to be slightly lower in the morning and slightly higher in the afternoon. It may also rise slightly after working in a hot environment, engaging in intense physical activity, or eating a meal. In women, body temperature may be slightly elevated before menstruation or during pregnancy. Therefore, an axillary temperature of 37.1°C in adults may represent a normal physiological phenomenon.

2. Abnormal

A temperature above 37°C may indicate a fever, possibly due to exposure to cold causing a cold or resulting from other inflammatory conditions within the body, although the condition is usually not severe. It is recommended to drink more water and get adequate rest. If body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, medications such as ibuprofen granules or acetaminophen tablets should be taken under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.