Is a temperature of 36.8°C considered a fever in elderly people?
Sep 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A temperature of 36.8°C in an elderly person is not considered a fever. The normal body temperature measured under the armpit ranges from 36°C to 37°C; therefore, a temperature of 36.8°C in an elderly individual falls within the normal range and does not indicate fever. If an elderly person's temperature continues to rise, they should seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause under a doctor's guidance and receive appropriate treatment. Fever generally refers to a body temperature that exceeds the normal range.
Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A temperature of 36.8°C in elderly individuals is not considered a fever. The normal body temperature measured under the armpit (axillary method) ranges from 36°C to 37°C; therefore, a temperature of 36.8°C in an elderly person falls within the normal range and does not indicate fever. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Fever generally refers to a body temperature that exceeds the normal range. In healthy individuals, body temperature fluctuates throughout the day, with variations typically not exceeding 1°C. Under normal physiological conditions, body temperature is lower in the morning and tends to rise in the afternoon or after physical activity or eating. Elderly people usually have slightly lower baseline temperatures, while women may experience slightly higher temperatures during menstruation or pregnancy.
After the onset of fever, body temperature can be classified into different degrees: low-grade fever, moderate fever, high fever, and hyperpyrexia. Using the axillary measurement method, normal armpit temperature ranges from 36°C to 37°C. A temperature between 37.3°C and 38°C is classified as low-grade fever, 38.1°C to 39°C as moderate fever, 39.1°C to 41°C as high fever, and above 41°C as hyperpyrexia.
If an elderly person's body temperature continues to rise, they should seek medical attention promptly. The underlying cause should be accurately diagnosed under a doctor's guidance, followed by appropriate and timely treatment.
