Normal Human Body Temperature Range
Apr 09, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
The normal range of human body temperature varies depending on the measurement method. Large-scale axillary temperature measurements have shown that the body temperature of healthy individuals typically ranges from 36.2°C to 37.5°C. Body temperature reaches its lowest point at approximately 6 a.m. and peaks between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., with an average normal body temperature of 37°C. Therefore, a temperature of 37°C or higher is generally defined as fever.
A normal body temperature generally indicates good health, whereas body temperature often changes when illness occurs. What is the normal human body temperature range?
Normal Human Body Temperature Range
The normal human body temperature range varies depending on the method of measurement. Large-scale studies measuring axillary (underarm) temperature have shown that in healthy individuals, body temperature typically ranges from 36.2°C to 37.5°C. The lowest temperature usually occurs around 6 a.m., while the highest occurs between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. The average normal body temperature is approximately 37°C; therefore, a temperature of ≥37°C is commonly defined as fever.
For oral (sublingual) temperature measurement, normal values are generally ≤37.2°C in the morning and ≤37.7°C in the afternoon, with an average of 37.3°C. Thus, oral temperature ≥37.3°C is considered febrile. For rectal temperature measurement, the normal range is typically <37.7°C; a reading ≥37.7°C is classified as fever.
Body temperature can be measured using a thermometer. Common methods include oral, axillary, and rectal measurement. Thermometers designed for oral use are called oral thermometers; those for axillary use are termed axillary thermometers; and those for rectal use are known as rectal thermometers. Regardless of the method employed, the mercury column in the thermometer must be reset to below 35°C before each measurement. We hope this information is helpful to you.
