What is normal body temperature for adults, babies, during pregnancy, and all else you need to know
Normal body temperature depends on many factors, including a person’s age and level of activity.
The average adult body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C). However, there may be differences in core body temperature.
In this article, we discuss normal temperatures for adults, children and pregnant women. We will also look at things that affect body temperature and when to consult a doctor.
Body temperature
Body temperature readings may vary depending on where the body is measured. For example, rectal temperature readings are higher than oral temperatures, and axillary temperature readings are lower.
Body temperature readings may also vary for the following reasons:
- The age of the person
- Time of day, usually lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon
- Recent human actions
- Eat food and water
Normal temperature in adults
According to the study, the average adult body temperature in all study sites is 97.86 degrees Celsius (36.59 degrees Celsius).
The researchers also found that the average body temperature of an adult, when measured orally, is between 97.2 and 98.6 degrees (36.24 and 37 degrees).
Average body temperature may vary from population to population. A study of about 35,500 people found that adults had the lowest hot flashes and African-American women had higher hot flashes than white men.
For example, people with hypothyroidism have lower temperatures, while cancer patients have higher temperatures.
The following temperatures are generally indicative of a fever:
- At least 100.4°F (38°C) – fever
- Temperatures above 103.1°F (39.5°C).
- Above 105.8°F (41°C) – Very high temperature
Normal temperature in children
The average body temperature for children is about 97.52°F (36.4°C), but this can vary. As in adults, temperatures above 38°C (100.4°F) may indicate fever in children.
Normal temperature in babies
Babies have higher body temperatures than older children and adults. The babies body temperature is 99.5°F (37.5°C).
The baby has a higher temperature because its body length is larger in relation to its weight. Their bodies are also metabolically active, resulting in heat release.
Children’s bodies do not regulate their body temperature in the same way as adults. When it warms up, it is not warm anymore, which means they have more heat in their bodies. If they have a fever, it can be hard for them to relax.
Normal temperature during pregnancy
One has a higher basal metabolism during pregnancy.
One study found that the peak body temperature around 12 weeks of gestation was 96 to 99.5°F (35.6 to 37.5°C). After 33 weeks, body temperature reaches 95.5 to 99.1 degrees (35.3 to 37.3 degrees).
How to measure temperature
There are several types of thermometers.
Digital thermometer
Digital thermometers are readily available and can provide accurate temperature readings.
Cervical measurements: Digital rectal thermometers are widely used and reliable for young children. One should clean the ends of these devices before inserting them into the rectum. The device notifies the user when it has been read and can safely delete it.
Verbal calibration: Conventional digital thermometers are easily administered orally (by mouth). First, one must ensure that the subject matter is clear. Then he puts it under his tongue towards the back of his mouth and closes his lips. The device displays readings on a built-in screen.
Underarm Measurement: A person can place a digital thermometer on themselves or another person’s anus. To ensure accurate reading, the signature must be pressed firmly against the body. This is a non-invasive way to measure a baby’s temperature.
Infrared heat
Infrared thermometers can measure temperature remotely. However, it is not as accurate as other methods.
People can use an in-ear thermometer to measure from the ear canal. the person who uses it.
It connects to the ear canal.
The device works until it leaks.
Typically, the user will hold the thermometer within inches of the person’s forehead and wait for the device to read.
One study found that although facial and ear measurements are less painful in infants, they are still not as accurate as rectal measurements.
It is important that people always follow the instructions on the thermometer packaging.
When do you see a doctor?
Treatment needs may vary by age.
Adults
In most cases, a person with a fever will not need treatment. However, if a person has the same or higher fever, he should seek medical attention.
A person should seek medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms, including fever.
- thirsty
- amazing
- Severe pain
Persistent or increasing fever
The following people should see a doctor if they have a fever:
- Recent transfers of participants
- People with weakened immune systems
- Immunosuppressive drugs
- Cancer survivors
A temperature above 41.5°C (106.7°F) is hyperpyrexia, a high fever. Hyperpyrexia requires immediate treatment.
If a person’s body temperature is too low, they may suffer from hypothermia. This is urgent and you should seek medical attention immediately. Doctors recommend high heat as a temperature of at least 95°F (35°C).
Children
If the child’s temperature is 104 F (40 C), the person should seek emergency help. Additionally, if a child has a high fever for 5 days or more, or if they have dehydration, vomiting, or diarrhea, they should seek medical attention.
If the child’s temperature drops below 35°C (95°F), medical attention is necessary.
Baby
If an infant 3 months of age or younger has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, seek emergency medical attention. A mild fever in infants may indicate a serious illness.
A temperature of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher in infants younger than 6 months is trigger for emergency care.
As with adults and older children, if a child’s temperature drops below 35°C (95°F), immediate care is required.
What changes body temperature?
When body temperature rises above or below 98.6°F (37°C), the hypothalamus regulates temperature.
If the body is too cold, the hypothalamus sends contraction signals that warm the body. When the body gets too hot, it sends signals to start sweating and release body heat.
The infection causes a lot of fever. The fever subsides as the body reacts naturally and fights the infection.
Fever symptoms
Doctors define a fever as a body temperature of 38°C or higher. Other symptoms include:
- no appetite
- cold
- headache
- disturb
- Muscle pain
- goosebumps
- pete
- weak
Summary
The average body temperature for adults is around 37°C (98.6°F), but this varies with age, physical activity and health. Body temperature also varies throughout the day. A temperature above 38°C (100.4°F) indicates fever.
Children may have a higher temperature than adults, but a low-grade fever in children can indicate a serious illness.
Temperature readings on various parts of the body show the temperature range that doctors consider normal. The abdominal exam is more extensive than the oral exam, and the axillary exam is usually shorter.
If a person has a temperature that is too high or too low, you should immediately consult a doctor.