Body temperature is one of the most important signals along with heart, blood pressure, and breathing patterns that indicate your health. Human body temperature fluctuates throughout the day but it generally resides within a particular slot. Understanding the average temperature of the body helps in staying active and healthy. Body temperature usually varies throughout the day at various parameters. Hence it becomes essential to understand the average temperature of the body to stay active and healthy. 

What Is Normal Body Temperature?

As per the study done in 1800, the normal body temperature in Fahrenheit for most people is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius. However, what is the normal body temperature in Fahrenheit can vary slightly. The average temperature of the body is noted somewhere between 97.5°F or 36.4°C and 97.9°F or 36.6°C. 

According to well-known medical experts, body temperature between 97°F to 99°F is measured as normal. There are chances when the perfectly active person can have the temperature at a higher or lower side. This fluctuation can be noticed often from infanthood to adulthood. 

Let us have a look at the temperature range at different stages :

• Body temperature of Newborn to 10 years: 95.9°F or 35.5°C to 99.5°F or 37.5°C 
• 11 to 65 years: 97.6°F or 36.4°C to 99.6°F or 37.6°C 
• Above 65 years: 96.4°F or 35.8°C to 98.5°F or 36.9°C 

 However, the above range fluctuates somewhat depending on the below-mentioned factors:

• Age and Gender
• Body type and size
• Place of measuring the body temperature, For example: underneath the tongue or the armpit
• The particular time during the day
• Climatic conditions and weather change
• Measuring the body temperature after a rigorous physical activity
• Contraction to any kind of infection

 High Body Temperature Or Fever

Use a thermometer to accurately monitor your body temperature and determine if fluctuations are a cause for concern. When the body temperature rises more than 100.4 F or 38 C, it is measured as fever which requires immediate medical attention. Fever is considered a body’s reaction to an infection. Various medical conditions, including hyperthyroidism and other endocrine disorders, can raise the body’s core temperature. Consulting a doctor is recommended if the fever lasts for more than two days.  If you experience additional symptoms like chills or sweating, it may indicate the need for urgent care. 

 Low Body Temperature Or Hypothermia

The human body sometimes tends to have a low body temperature that is lower than 98.6° F or 37° C. This abnormal drop in the normal temperature of the human body can be the result of various medical conditions or any kind of infection. Hypothermia outcomes in dropping the temperature of the body drastically below 95° F or 35° C. This condition affects the body, leading to the dysfunction of internal body organs. Ignorance of this condition can lead to organ failure or other complications. Immediate medical consultancy is required to get things under control. In severe cases, hypothermia can be life-threatening and requires emergency medical intervention. 

Does fluctuation in the body temperature affect the body?

Rise or fall in the body temperature can be a matter of concern, especially for people undergoing common medical ailments. Patients with chronic medical symptoms may suffer because of their normal body temperature fluctuations. To be precise,  a person with a respiratory infection may face serious symptoms like asthma, breathing issues, or also heart-related problems. 

Other common medical conditions can make it difficult for the body to sustain the infections, such as diabetes or cancer. Hence, if the patient has any medical conditions and there is a fluctuation in the normal body temperature, it is highly recommended to see the doctor as early as possible to avoid the risk of upcoming complications. 

 Tips to Normalize Body Temperature

When the body is exposed to life-threatening circumstances, you should take extra care of your body to avoid unfamiliar complications. People struggling with a certain kind of infection need to take extra care. Let us have a look at the following tips:

 Guidelines For Winter Season

•  Try wearing warm and several layers of clothing
•  Keep wearing hand gloves and socks throughout the day
• Try to avoid direct exposure to the extreme cold
•  Ensure your home environment is warm and use heaters safely to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

Guidelines and Tips For the Heat Season

• Consume plenty of water, approximately eight glasses every day, as the body requires extra hydration to combat extreme heat and keep the body cool
• Make efforts to dodge direct contact with the sun
• Include light-coloured and breathable attire in your day-to-day routine to beat the heat.
• Keep taking short breaks if you have a high-intensity or hyperactive day.
•  Use fans or air conditioning to regulate indoor temperatures, especially during heatwaves. 
•  Be aware of heat stroke symptoms, such as confusion and excessive sweating, and seek medical attention immediately if you suspect it. 

Bottomline

Normal body temperature differs from person to person and depends on age, activities, and timing during the day. The average normal body temperature is usually measured as 98.6°F or 37°C. A body temperature range above 100.4°F or 38°C is mostly considered a high body temperature or fever instigated by an infection or ailment. Appropriate medical attention can help combat the severe complications that may be caused due to fluctuations in the normal body temperature. 

Consult a medical expert as soon as possible if your body temperature is not in the normal range.