What is the normal body temperature in degrees Celsius for adults?
Sep 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the normal body temperature for adults ranges from 36 to 37°C. The standard for normal human body temperature is typically determined by measuring axillary (underarm) temperature. In adults, axillary temperature generally ranges from 36 to 37°C; a temperature exceeding 37.2°C is considered fever. Normal body temperature refers to the internal temperature of the human body, which remains relatively constant within a certain range, with slight fluctuations occurring over a 24-hour period.
Under normal circumstances, the normal body temperature for adults ranges from 36 to 37°C. The standard for normal human body temperature is typically determined by measuring axillary (underarm) temperature. In adults, axillary temperature generally falls between 36 and 37°C; a reading exceeding 37.2°C is considered feverish. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Normal body temperature refers to the internal temperature of the human body, which remains relatively constant, with slight fluctuations occurring within a 24-hour period. Typically ranging from 36 to 37°C, this measurement is usually obtained via the axillary method. Slight variations may occur depending on the measurement method: oral temperature (normal range: 36.3–37.2°C), axillary temperature (normal range: 36–37°C), and rectal temperature (normal range: 36.5–37.7°C).
Normal body temperature varies slightly among individuals and can be mildly influenced by both internal and external factors. For example, body temperature in the afternoon is slightly higher than in the morning; intense physical activity, labor, or eating a meal may also cause a slight increase in temperature, although fluctuations generally do not exceed 1°C. Women may experience slightly elevated temperatures before menstruation or during pregnancy. Older adults tend to have lower body temperatures compared to younger individuals due to a reduced metabolic rate. Additionally, body temperature may rise slightly in high-temperature environments.
If a patient develops symptoms of fever, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
