What body temperature is considered a fever?
Nov 20, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. The normal axillary (underarm) temperature in humans ranges between 35.9°C and 36.7°C; axillary temperature above 37°C is considered fever. Normal oral temperature ranges from 36.4°C to 37.2°C, and oral temperature exceeding 37.2°C is considered fever. The normal rectal temperature in humans is approximately between 36°C and 37.5°C; rectal temperature above 37.5°C is considered fever.
Fever usually refers to an elevated body temperature. The definition of fever depends on the site of measurement, as normal body temperature varies from person to person. Common sites for temperature measurement include the armpit (axilla), mouth (oral), and rectum (rectal).
1. Armpit (Axillary)
The normal axillary body temperature ranges between 35.9°C and 36.7°C. An axillary temperature above 37°C is considered a fever.
2. Mouth (Oral)
The normal oral temperature ranges between 36.4°C and 37.2°C. Generally, an oral temperature exceeding 37.2°C is considered a fever.
3. Rectum (Rectal)
The normal rectal temperature ranges approximately between 36°C and 37.5°C. A rectal temperature above 37.5°C is considered a fever.
Body temperature varies among individuals; some people have a naturally lower baseline temperature, while others have a higher one. Individuals with a lower baseline temperature may experience symptoms of fever even when their temperature remains within the normal range. Therefore, the values listed above are for reference only. When symptoms of fever occur, patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment to avoid delaying diagnosis and care.
