Understanding Body Temperature: What’s Normal and What’s Not
The Evolution of Body Temperature Norms
Growing up, we were taught that a body temperature of 98.6°F (37°C) was the gold standard. But is this still the case? Research suggests that average body temperatures have been decreasing over the years, likely due to improvements in healthcare and lower infection rates.
What Influences Body Temperature?
Several factors can affect our body temperature, including age, hormones, and activity level. As a result, there is no one-size-fits-all “normal” temperature. Instead, there are general temperature ranges that most people fall into.
Normal Body Temperatures by Age Group
- Infants and children: 97.8°F (36.5°C) to 99.5°F (37.5°C)
- Adults: 97.0°F (36.1°C) to 99.0°F (37.2°C)
- Older adults (over 65): generally lower than 98.6°F (37°C)
Have Body Temperatures Changed for Adults?
Recent studies have found that average body temperatures among adults are closer to 97.9°F (36.6°C) or even 97.7°F (36.5°C). This shift may be attributed to better healthcare and lower infection rates.
What About Normal Body Temperatures for Kids?
Children and babies tend to run a bit warmer than adults, with temperatures ranging from 97.8°F (36.5°C) to 99.5°F (37.5°C). They are also more prone to fevers when they get sick.
How to Take Your Temperature
There are several ways to take your temperature, but the safest methods involve using a digital thermometer in the mouth, under the arm, in the rectum, or in the ear using a tympanic thermometer.
When to Seek Help for Body Temperature Issues
Low body temperatures can be caused by factors like an underactive thyroid gland or hypothermia. However, higher body temperatures signaling a fever are more common. If you or your child has a fever, you may experience accompanying symptoms like sweating, chills, flushed skin, body aches, fatigue, and increased heart rate.
When to Contact Your Doctor
If you’ve had a fever for more than 3 days or experience additional symptoms like vomiting, a stiff neck, throat swelling, or difficulty breathing, contact your doctor as soon as possible. For babies and little kids, contact your doctor if they are:
- Under 3 months old with a temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher
- Over 3 months old with a temperature repeatedly above 104°F (40°C)
- Experiencing symptoms like a headache, sore throat, stiff neck, unexplained rash, ear pain, vomiting, or signs of dehydration
- In a very hot place like an overheated car
The Bottom Line
Average body temperatures have been decreasing in recent years, and the traditional 98.6°F (37°C) may not be as “normal” as we thought. If you’re an adult with a mild fever, it’s likely no cause for concern. However, if you’re experiencing additional symptoms or have concerns about your child’s temperature, it’s always best to consult with your doctor.
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