Is a body temperature of 35.8°C normal?

Mar 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I took my temperature today and it was only 35.8°C. I feel a bit cold. My body temperature is usually normal—do you think this might be too low? Could there be any problem?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi

In general, a body temperature of 35.8°C is slightly below the lower limit of the normal range. The typical normal axillary (underarm) body temperature ranges between 36°C and 37°C, oral (mouth) temperature around 36.3°C to 37.2°C, and rectal (anal) temperature between 36.5°C and 37.7°C.

However, a temperature of 35.8°C may also be a normal physiological phenomenon. For example, some individuals have a lower basal body temperature and naturally maintain a temperature close to this level. Additionally, incorrect measurement methods or insufficient measuring time may lead to a lower recorded temperature. If the environmental temperature is too low or clothing is inadequate, excessive body heat loss can also cause a drop in body temperature. Elderly individuals may also have relatively lower temperatures due to slower metabolic rates.

Nevertheless, if accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or chills, it could indicate an underlying illness, such as hypothyroidism or severe infection. In such cases, timely medical consultation is necessary for further examination and diagnosis to identify the cause and implement appropriate treatment measures. When assessing overall health status, body temperature should be interpreted in combination with other clinical manifestations.