What body temperature measured anally indicates a fever?
Apr 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. A rectal temperature greater than or equal to 37.8°C is considered fever. The normal range for rectal temperature is typically between 36.5°C and 37.7°C. If the temperature is between 37.8°C and 38.9°C, it indicates the patient has a low-grade fever, and physical cooling methods such as wiping the body with lukewarm water may be used to reduce the temperature.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature, typically defined as a rectal temperature greater than or equal to 37.8°C.
The normal range for rectal temperature is usually between 36.5°C and 37.7°C. If the temperature ranges from 37.8°C to 38.9°C, it indicates a low-grade fever. In such cases, physical cooling methods such as wiping can be used. During mild fever, options include applying cold compresses or using alcohol to wipe specific body areas to achieve a certain degree of physical cooling. However, if the temperature is higher—reaching around 39°C—and physical cooling proves ineffective, medication should be considered. Under medical guidance, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with antipyretic and analgesic effects may be used.
In addition, it's important to note that fever may result from inflammatory infections. It is therefore advisable to identify the underlying cause of inflammation and select appropriate anti-inflammatory medications accordingly. For example, under medical supervision, drugs such as amoxicillin capsules or penicillin V potassium tablets may be prescribed.
