What Is a Normal Body Temperature Range?

Which body temperature is normal? It's not as easy as you may assume to answer that question. There isn't a single, precise "normal" body temperature. Everybody has an ordinary, but even that is more of a sliding scale than a single number that stays constant throughout your life. However, body temperature has ranges and patterns, and there are instances in which you should closely monitor the thermometer's reading. 

The time of day, age, types of activity, and measurement technique are some variables that might significantly affect body temperature. As a result, the concept of "normal" means a wider range and is subjective. 

What's the Normal Body Temperature Range?

It is always seen that adults have a normal body temperature of 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C). However, several variables can lead to fluctuations in one's body temperature, such as: 

• Exercise and activities 
• People with heart problems 
• External factors such as weather 

Average Body Temperature by Age

Here is the range of body temperature by age: 

What Makes Your Body Temperature Rise?

Here are a few factors that can make the temperature rise: 

• Infection or Illness: When a person's body fights an infection, it can trigger an immune response, causing the body temperature to rise. This fever is a natural defence mechanism, helping to kill off pathogens by creating a less favourable environment for them. 
• Exercise: When a person exercises a lot, it increases muscle activity, generating heat and raising the core body temperature. This leads to increased body temperature, which manages and dissipates excess heat. 
• Environmental Factors: An environment with high temperatures and humidity might cause the body temperature to rise. The body cools itself by sweating in hot and humid conditions. However, this may not be enough in extreme conditions, which might lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. 
• Emotional Stress: Sometimes, emotional stress might trigger a fight-or-flight response in the body. It releases adrenaline and cortisol - hormones that increase the heart rate and blood flow. This, in turn, generates more heat than raising your body temperature. 
• Medications: Several medications, such as antibiotics, might interfere with the body's heat regulation or metabolism, causing an increase in body temperature. 
• Dehydration: Dehydration can also cause body temperature to rise. Dehydration causes the body to sweat and evaporate heat efficiently. When dehydrated, the body fights to manage temperature. This leads to an increase in body temperature. 

How to Take Your Temperature?

Here's how you can take your temperature effectively: 

• Digital thermometers: There are several thermometers to choose from, including oral, rectal, ear (tympanic), or forehead (temporal artery) thermometers based on preference. Remember, thermometers vary depending on the person in need.
• Clean your thermometer before use with rubbing alcohol or lukewarm soapy water. Ensure the thermometer is dried before using it. 
• Swab Most digital thermometers beep to indicate they've finished taking the measurement. Wait for this signal before removing the thermometer to ensure an accurate reading. 

It is advisable to read the temperature on the thermometer's display. You can also record the reading and the time and method used to take the temperature. This can help track temperature changes over time. 

When Should You Take Your Temperature?

You should take your temperature when you experience any symptoms of fever, such as chills, sweating, headache, or muscle aches. Measuring your temperature in the morning and evening is best to monitor any changes. Also, consider taking your temperature before consuming any fever- reducing medications, as these can affect the accuracy of the reading. Always use a clean thermometer and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the most accurate results. 

Conclusion

The average body temperature of a healthy person is between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C). However, the body temperature varies depending on the age of the people. Also, a slight variation. in the body temperature is acceptable. However, if a person experiences a drop or rise in temperature that is uncomfortable for more than a day, they should see a doctor immediately. 

There are many reasons why there might be a fluctuation in body temperature. The healthcare provider might run some tests and advise on the treatment plan accordingly. 

FAQs

Q1. Is a 98.7 a fever? 

Ans. A body temperature of 98.7°F falls within adults' normal body temperature range. Hence, it is not considered a fever. A temperature above 100.4 or more is regarded as a fever. 

Q2. Is 99 a normal body temperature?

Ans. Yes, a temperature between 96 and 99°F is considered a standard body temperature range. 

Q3. Is it OK if my temperature is 96?

Ans. 98.7 is normally considered an ideal body temperature. But for some (86-hypothermia), is also not considered normal.