Is 37.5°C considered a fever in adults?
Oct 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xuemei
Introduction
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Under normal circumstances, whether an adult body temperature of 37.5°C constitutes a fever depends on specific conditions—it may or may not be considered fever. If the temperature measured orally or under the armpit is 37.5°C, it is generally considered a fever. If fever symptoms persist or worsen, medications such as acetaminophen tablets or compound paracetamol and chlorpheniramine capsules may be used under medical guidance.
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Under normal circumstances, whether 37.5°C in adults constitutes a fever depends on specific conditions—it may or may not be considered feverish. Details are as follows:
1. It counts as fever
The normal body temperature for adults ranges from 36.1°C to 37.2°C, but this can vary depending on the measurement site. Generally, the normal oral temperature range is 36.3–37.2°C, axillary (underarm) temperature ranges from 36.0°C to 37.0°C, and rectal temperature ranges from 36.5°C to 37.7°C. If the temperature of 37.5°C is measured orally or under the arm, it is generally considered a fever. Patients may relieve symptoms through methods such as wiping the body with lukewarm water or taking a warm bath. If the fever persists or worsens, medications such as acetaminophen tablets or compound paracetamol-phenylephrine capsules may be used under a doctor's guidance.
2. It does not count as fever
Since the normal range for rectal temperature is 36.5°C to 37.7°C, a reading of 37.5°C obtained via rectal measurement does not constitute a fever and typically requires no special treatment.
In summary, if a patient experiences persistent or severe fever accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, chills, or muscle aches, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is recommended to avoid potentially serious consequences.
