Is an axillary temperature of 36.7°C considered a fever?
May 24, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. From a clinical perspective, an axillary temperature of 36.7°C is not considered fever. Normally, the human axillary temperature ranges between 36.1°C and 37.3°C. However, in a small number of healthy individuals, the axillary temperature may range from 35.5°C to 36.0°C. An axillary temperature above 37.4°C is considered fever.
Fever generally refers to an elevated body temperature. From a clinical perspective, an axillary (underarm) temperature of 36.7℃ is not considered fever. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Under normal circumstances, the typical axillary body temperature ranges from 36.1℃ to 37.3℃. However, a small number of healthy individuals may have axillary temperatures between 35.5℃ and 36.0℃. A temperature of 37.4℃ or higher measured under the arm is defined as fever. An axillary temperature of 37.4℃ or above is the clinical threshold for diagnosing fever. In other words, a person is considered to have a fever when their axillary temperature reaches or exceeds 37.4℃. It's important to note that fever can be categorized into low-grade and high-grade fever. Low-grade fever typically refers to an axillary temperature between 37.4℃ and 38.0℃, while high-grade fever generally means an axillary temperature ranging from 39.1℃ to 41.0℃. When fever occurs, symptoms such as fatigue, drowsiness, chills, flushed and hot skin, rapid breathing and heart rate, dizziness, and impaired consciousness may appear. If these symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is essential.
In summary, an axillary temperature of 36.7℃ does not constitute a fever. However, if other discomforts or symptoms are present despite normal temperature readings, it is crucial to take them seriously and seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.
