Body temperature 35.5°C accompanied by general weakness and headache
Apr 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
The normal human body temperature ranges are as follows: rectal temperature, 36.9–37.9°C; oral temperature, 36.3–37.2°C; and axillary temperature, 36.1–37.0°C. A body temperature of 35.5°C falls below all these ranges and may be caused by factors such as low environmental temperature, hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, tuberculosis, or Parkinson's disease.
Under normal circumstances, the normal range for human rectal temperature is 36.9–37.9°C, oral temperature is 36.3–37.2°C, and axillary (underarm) temperature is 36.1–37.0°C. A body temperature of 35.5°C falls below these ranges and indicates hypothermia. When accompanied by symptoms such as general fatigue and headache, it may be caused by factors including low environmental temperature, hypothyroidism, adrenal cortical insufficiency, tuberculosis, or Parkinson's disease. Treatment should be directed at the underlying cause. If symptoms persist or worsen, immediate medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Low environmental temperature
If the surrounding temperature is too low, the body loses more heat than usual, potentially resulting in a body temperature of 35.5°C, along with symptoms such as generalized weakness and headache. It is best to move to a warmer environment, add clothing, and allow the body to gradually return to normal temperature, which can help alleviate fatigue and headaches.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism reduces the body’s basal metabolic rate and may lead to symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue. Under medical guidance, patients may take medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, or alfacalcidol soft capsules for treatment.
3. Adrenal cortical insufficiency
Adrenal cortical insufficiency is a condition caused by reduced secretion of adrenal cortical hormones under baseline or stressful conditions due to various factors. Patients may experience symptoms including low blood pressure, fatigue, and malaise, leading to low body temperature, dizziness, and generalized weakness. Under medical supervision, patients may be treated with medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, fludrocortisone acetate tablets, or hydrocortisone tablets.
4. Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is caused by infection with *Mycobacterium tuberculosis* and may be triggered by factors such as weakened immunity. Some patients may develop persistent or intermittent low-grade fever in the afternoon, headache, and fatigue. Common additional symptoms include cough, sputum production, and blood-tinged sputum. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as isoniazid tablets, rifampicin tablets, and pyrazinamide tablets for treatment.
5. Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease involves autonomic nervous system dysfunction, leading to impaired vasoconstriction of small arteries in upright posture, which may result in symptoms such as low body temperature, headache, and fatigue. Under medical guidance, medications such as levodopa tablets, trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride tablets, and citicoline sodium capsules may be used to relieve symptoms.
It is recommended that patients rest adequately, maintain sufficient hydration, and ensure proper nutrition during treatment to support recovery.
