Categories >> Body Measurements >> Body Temperature
A person’s body temperature refers to the measurement of their internal heat, with the average normal temperature considered to be 98.6°F (37°C); however, a healthy individual’s temperature can naturally fluctuate throughout the day, with the lowest point usually occurring in the early morning and slightly higher temperatures in the late afternoon or evening, depending on activity levels and other factors; different methods of measuring body temperature, like oral (under the tongue), rectal, or axillary (armpit), can produce slightly different readings, with rectal measurements typically being slightly higher than oral readings; a temperature significantly above the normal range is considered a fever. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key points about body temperature: [1, 2, 4]
• Average normal temperature: 98.6°F (37°C) [1, 2, 4]
• Fluctuation throughout the day: Body temperature naturally varies throughout the day, with lower temperatures in the morning and higher temperatures in the evening. [1, 3, 4]
• Measurement methods: Different methods like oral, rectal, axillary, and ear measurements can produce slightly different readings. [3, 4, 6]
• Fever: A body temperature significantly above the normal range is considered a fever. [1, 4, 5]
[1] https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001982.htm
[2] https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=hw198785
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_body_temperature
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/body-temperature
[5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759
[6] https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/helping-hands/temperature-digital-and-glass-thermometers