
Is an ear temperature of 37.6°C considered a fever in adults?
My husband drank too much. However, he has a hoarse voice and a hot forehead. He didn't cooperate when I tried to take his temperature orally, so I only measured his ear temperature. Is an ear temperature of 37.6°C considered a fever in adults?

Fever, also known as pyrexia, in adults is generally defined as an ear temperature of 37.6℃ or higher. Under normal circumstances, an adult's ear temperature typically remains stable between 36℃ and 37.2℃. When the ear temperature exceeds this range, reaching or surpassing 37.3℃, it is usually considered a fever. Therefore, an ear temperature of 37.6℃ in an adult indicates a fever, as it falls outside the normal body temperature range. Fever may be a normal response of the body to infection, inflammation, or other illnesses, or it may indicate the body's attempt at self-regulation and healing.
When an adult has a fever with an ear temperature of 37.6℃, there's no need to panic. It is important to rest adequately and avoid excessive fatigue to allow the body sufficient time to recover. Drinking plenty of water to maintain hydration can assist metabolism and help reduce body temperature. Additionally, monitoring for other symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, or headache may help identify the cause of the fever. If the fever persists or the temperature continues to rise, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.