Is an armpit temperature of 37.2°C considered a low-grade fever?

Jan 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Guo Xiheng

Introduction

In general, an axillary temperature of 37.2°C is not considered a low-grade fever. Typically, an axillary temperature between 37.3°C and 38°C is classified as a low-grade fever; therefore, a reading of 37.2°C usually does not qualify. However, for some patients with a lower baseline body temperature, an axillary temperature of 37.2°C may represent a mild fever, in which case physical cooling methods can be used.

A body temperature of 37.2°C measured under the armpit is not considered a low-grade fever; it falls within the normal range. The diagnostic criteria for low-grade fever are temperatures between 37.3°C and 38°C.

Generally speaking, a body temperature of 37.2°C measured under the armpit does not constitute a low-grade fever. Typically, a low-grade fever is defined as an axillary temperature ranging from 37.3°C to 38°C. Low-grade fever is a common symptom that may be accompanied by cough, fatigue, night sweats, or sweating upon waking, and can be related to infectious, non-infectious, or functional factors. Therefore, in daily life, an axillary temperature reading of 37.2°C is generally not classified as a low-grade fever.

The normal axillary body temperature for healthy individuals ranges from 36°C to 37°C. A reading of 37.2°C may still be within the normal physiological range. For example, body temperature may slightly increase after intense exercise, emotional excitement, a heavy meal, during menstruation, or pregnancy—these are usually normal physiological phenomena that do not require treatment. Additionally, body temperature naturally varies throughout the day: it tends to be lowest in the morning and highest in the evening, with fluctuations of 0.5°C to 1°C being considered normal.

Some individuals have a lower baseline body temperature. In such cases, an axillary temperature of 37.2°C accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, headache, or nasal congestion may indicate a mild fever. Physical cooling methods can be used, such as wiping the forehead, groin, and armpits with a warm towel. Drinking plenty of warm water can also help reduce body temperature. Furthermore, engaging in appropriate physical exercise can enhance immunity and resistance, which may aid in recovery.

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Is 37.2°C considered a fever?

Under normal circumstances, body temperature varies due to individual differences and the site of measurement. The normal range for axillary (underarm) temperature is 36.1°C to 37°C. Fever is generally defined as a body temperature exceeding the upper limit of the normal range. In most cases, an axillary temperature of 37.2°C, which exceeds 37°C, is considered indicative of fever.

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Is 37.2°C considered a fever?

A body temperature of 37.2°C: if measured orally, the normal range is 36.3–37.2°C, so it is not considered a fever. If measured rectally, the normal range is 36.5–37.7°C, so 37.2°C is also not considered a fever. However, if measured under the armpit (axillary), the normal range is 36–37°C; thus, an axillary temperature of 37.2°C is usually considered a fever.