Is a temperature of 37.7℃ considered a fever?
Today, I felt a bit hot all over. I took my temperature with a thermometer, and it was 37.7°C. I'm not entirely sure whether this qualifies as a fever or not.
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Generally, whether 37.7°C constitutes a fever depends on the measurement site. If measured under the armpit or orally, it is usually considered a fever. However, if measured rectally, it may not be classified as a fever.
Normal body temperature varies depending on the measurement site. For example, normal axillary (under the armpit) temperature typically ranges between 36°C and 37°C; oral (mouth) temperature normally ranges from 36.3°C to 37.2°C; and rectal temperature generally falls between 36.5°C and 37.7°C. If the temperature is measured axillary, then it exceeds the normal range and can be considered a low-grade or mild fever. If it is an oral measurement, it also exceeds the upper limit of normal, indicating a mild fever as well. However, if the temperature is measured rectally, although this level is somewhat elevated, it may not necessarily indicate a fever, and further evaluation combining specific symptoms and other clinical signs is required.
If a body temperature of 37.7°C is recorded and there are no other uncomfortable symptoms, it is advisable to rest for a while and then retake the temperature. At the same time, observe whether other accompanying symptoms appear, such as headache, fatigue, cough, etc., to further determine whether there is an underlying illness.