What is the normal human body temperature?
Apr 17, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
The normal human body temperature ranges from 36°C to 37°C—this is the axillary (underarm) temperature commonly measured in clinical practice and daily life. Temperatures outside this range indicate fever: low-grade fever refers to temperatures below 38°C, while high-grade fever refers to temperatures above 39°C. Additionally, body temperature can also be assessed by measuring rectal or oral temperature. The normal rectal temperature range is 36.3°C to 37.2°C.
Body temperature varies across different anatomical sites, with notable differences between morning and evening readings, as well as between males and females. Although human body temperature remains relatively stable within a certain range, what exactly constitutes a “normal” body temperature?
What Is the Normal Human Body Temperature?
The normal human body temperature ranges from 36°C to 37°C—this is the axillary (underarm) temperature commonly measured in clinical practice and daily life. Temperatures exceeding this range indicate fever: low-grade fever is defined as ≤38°C, while high-grade fever is ≥39°C. Rectal and oral temperatures may also be used to assess body temperature. The normal rectal temperature range is 36.3°C–37.2°C, and the normal oral temperature range is 36.5°C–37.7°C. These reference ranges apply to most healthy individuals; however, variations exist—for example, children typically have higher baseline temperatures than older adults, and physical activity can transiently elevate body temperature. On average, women’s body temperature is approximately 0.35°C higher than men’s. Additionally, women experience slight fluctuations in body temperature during the menstrual cycle, and temperature rises further during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
Body temperature reaches its lowest point during early-morning rest and rises slightly upon waking. It may also increase following vigorous exercise, eating, or emotional excitement. In the afternoon, temperature tends to be slightly higher than in the morning. Typically, diurnal fluctuations do not exceed 1°C and remain well within the normal physiological range.
Normal body temperature must always be interpreted in the context of the measurement site. We hope this information is helpful!
