What is the normal temperature when measuring underarm with a thermometer?
The normal axillary (underarm) body temperature ranges from 36 to 37°C; a temperature exceeding 37.3°C is considered fever.
A healthy person's body temperature is relatively stable, typically represented by measurements taken orally, rectally, or under the armpit. The normal range for axillary temperature is 36–37°C. However, body temperature is not constant and may fluctuate due to factors such as emotions, physical activity, gender, and age. For example, women may experience a mild increase in body temperature during early pregnancy or the premenstrual phase due to progesterone secretion, although it generally does not exceed 37.3°C. Physical exercise, which involves skeletal muscle contraction, can also lead to a slight rise in body temperature. An axillary temperature above 37°C may indicate fever, while a reading below 35°C may suggest hypothermia.
If body temperature is abnormal, timely medical evaluation is recommended to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment. It is also important to stay warm and maintain adequate hydration in daily life.