How high must an armpit temperature be to be considered a fever?
Nov 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A temperature above 37.2°C measured under the armpit is considered fever. The normal axillary temperature range for adults is 36–37.2°C; a temperature exceeding 37.2°C is defined as fever. A temperature of 37.2–38°C is considered low-grade fever, 38.1–39°C moderate fever, 39.1–40°C high fever, and above 40°C is classified as hyperpyrexia (extremely high fever).
Fever refers to an elevated body temperature. Generally, a temperature above 37.2°C measured under the armpit is considered fever.
Under normal circumstances, the normal axillary (armpit) body temperature for adults ranges between 36°C and 37.2°C. A temperature exceeding 37.2°C is defined as fever. Fever can be classified into mild, moderate, severe, and hyperpyrexia. A body temperature between 37.2°C and 38°C is referred to as low-grade fever, between 38.1°C and 39°C as moderate fever, between 39.1°C and 40°C as severe fever, and above 40°C as hyperpyrexia. When body temperature exceeds 37.2°C and fever is present, it may be caused by infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other pathogens. It could also result from systemic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, hyperthyroidism, hematological disorders, or malignancies.
When body temperature does not exceed 38.5°C, antipyretic medications are generally not recommended. Instead, physical methods of cooling are advised under a doctor's guidance. If low-grade fever recurs frequently, prompt medical evaluation is recommended to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
