Is a temperature slightly above 37°C considered a fever?
Nov 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a temperature in the range of 37°C is generally not considered a fever if it falls within the normal range for oral and rectal temperatures. However, if the temperature exceeds the normal range, it may indicate a fever. Once a fever develops, it is recommended to promptly visit a hospital for appropriate tests to determine the underlying cause and receive proper treatment for effective management. During treatment, adequate rest and increased fluid intake are advised, as they help promote the return of body temperature to normal levels.
Under normal circumstances, a temperature in the range of 37 point something °C is generally not considered fever if it falls within the normal range for oral or rectal temperature. However, if it exceeds the normal body temperature range, it may indicate fever.
1. Not fever
If a temperature in the range of 37 point something °C refers to oral temperature and does not exceed 37.2°C, it is considered normal, indicating that the body does not have a fever. Similarly, if it refers to rectal temperature and remains below 37.5°C, it is also within the normal range. Rectal temperature is normally slightly higher than oral temperature, and values between 36.6°C and 37.5°C are considered normal.
2. Fever
In general, normal axillary (underarm) body temperature ranges from 36.1°C to 37°C, oral temperature from 36.3°C to 37.2°C, and rectal temperature is typically 0.3–0.5°C higher than oral temperature. If axillary temperature exceeds 37°C, oral temperature exceeds 37.2°C, or rectal temperature exceeds 37.5°C, this indicates elevated body temperature and suggests low-grade fever. This may result from decreased immunity and invasion by pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, or mycoplasma, leading to inflammatory responses in the respiratory, digestive, or urinary reproductive systems. Additionally, chronic low-grade fever can be caused by endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism or diabetes, which lead to abnormal metabolism.
When fever occurs, it is recommended to promptly visit a hospital for relevant examinations to determine the underlying cause and follow medical advice for appropriate treatment. During treatment, adequate rest and increased fluid intake are important to help restore normal body temperature.
