Is an underarm temperature of 38.1°C normal, and should I take antipyretic medication?

Antipyretics usually refer to fever-reducing medications. A body temperature of 38.1°C under the armpit is generally considered abnormal. Whether or not to take antipyretic medication should be determined based on the severity of the patient's symptoms.

Normal axillary (underarm) temperature ranges between 36.1°C and 37°C. A reading of 38.1°C is clearly above this normal range and therefore indicates a low-grade fever. If the patient’s temperature shows no signs of further increase and there are no significant symptoms such as muscle aches or headache, antipyretic medication is usually not necessary. However, if the axillary temperature remains at 38.1°C for an extended period and the patient begins experiencing noticeable symptoms such as headache, nausea, or general weakness, antipyretic medication may be needed under a doctor’s guidance. Commonly used drugs include acetaminophen (paracetamol) tablets and ibuprofen granules.

For patients with an axillary temperature of 38.1°C who are not taking antipyretic medication, non-pharmacological methods such as applying cooling patches or performing lukewarm water sponge baths can usually help promote heat dissipation from the body surface and assist in regulating body temperature.