What causes an adult's body temperature to be below 36℃?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
A body temperature below 36°C in adults may be a normal variation, but it could also be caused by conditions such as anemia or hypothyroidism. In addition to these relatively common causes, other factors like hypoglycemia, excessive blood loss, or hypothermia may also contribute. If any discomfort symptoms occur, prompt medical evaluation and timely treatment are recommended to avoid delaying diagnosis and management.
Body temperature below 36°C in adults may be a normal phenomenon, or could be caused by conditions such as anemia or hypothyroidism. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Normal phenomenon
Some elderly individuals and people with frail body types have relatively low metabolic rates, which may result in body temperatures below the normal lower limit, leading to temperatures under 36°C. This is considered a normal occurrence.
2. Anemia
Anemia refers to a condition in which the number of red blood cells in peripheral blood decreases and hemoglobin concentration falls below normal levels. Anemia can disrupt the body's thermoregulatory center, potentially causing body temperature to drop below 36°C.
3. Hypothyroidism
In patients with this condition, reduced secretion of thyroid hormones and decreased basal metabolism lead to reduced heat production in the body, resulting in lower body temperature.
Besides the above relatively common causes, other factors such as hypoglycemia, excessive blood loss, and hypothermia may also contribute. If any discomfort symptoms occur, timely medical evaluation and treatment are essential to avoid delaying proper care.
