Is 98.6°F (37°C) still the gold standard for normal body temperature, or is it outdated? This question has been on many minds, especially after Stanford University researchers suggested that the average body temperature might actually be lower than we’ve long believed.
Dr. Julie Parsonnet and her team analyzed 618,306 oral temperature measurements from adult patients taken between 2008 and 2017. Their findings revealed that normal body temperature ranges from 36.2°C to 36.8°C (97.3°F to 98.2°F), casting doubt on the traditional benchmark of 98.6°F.
Interestingly, the study also showed that average body temperatures have steadily decreased over the decades, dropping by at least 0.05°C each decade since the 19th century. According to the researchers, this decline could be attributed to better living conditions, improved diets, advances in healthcare, and greater awareness of personal health. These factors have likely reduced inflammation and the prevalence of infections, contributing to a lower average body temperature. This research challenges long-standing norms and encourages us to rethink what we consider “normal” when it comes to body temperature.
Does This Impact Fever Diagnosis?
In clinical practice, we generally consider a body temperature below 100°F as not significant. If your thermometer reads anything slightly under 100°F, we don’t recommend taking Paracetamol. Instead, we suggest focusing on rest and staying hydrated. Medication is typically advised only when the temperature rises to 101°F or higher.
It’s worth mentioning that normal body temperature can vary quite a bit, typically falling between 97°F and 99.2°F. Interestingly, our body temperature isn’t constant throughout the day; it tends to be higher in the afternoon and can increase even more in the evening. These fluctuations usually occur within a few tenths of a degree.
The variation in body temperature can be attributed to several factors, including individual metabolism, height, sex, age, weight, diet, physical activity, hormonal changes, and any existing medical conditions. As we age, our body temperature tends to decrease, with older adults—especially those over 60—often having slightly lower temperatures. This change could be related to a decrease in muscle mass and changes in how our metabolism works.
On the other hand, children can experience a wider range of temperature differences, typically falling between 95.9°F and 99.5°F.
Your body temperature can also be influenced by external factors. For instance, extreme cold or heat can cause fluctuations in your temperature. Additionally, how well you nourish your body plays a role, as does the use of certain medications like antidepressants and sedatives. These factors can all impact how your body regulates its temperature.
What Is Fever and How Does It Affect Your Health?
A high-grade fever is usually recognized as a temperature that falls between 103°F and 105°F. If your temperature falls between 100°F and 102°F, it’s classified as a moderate-grade fever. A high-grade fever typically refers to a body temperature between 103°F and 105°F. On the other hand, if your body temperature falls below 95°F, it signals hypothermia. This condition happens when your body loses heat more quickly than it can generate it.
Your Guide to Accurate Temperature Measurement
When it comes to measuring temperature, rectal readings are considered the most accurate, typically being one degree higher than oral readings, which are the most commonly used. If you’re taking your temperature in your armpit, remember to add a degree to determine if you have a fever.
It’s worth noting that modern contactless infrared thermometers might give slightly lower readings than oral thermometers, so adding a degree can help you get a better idea of your actual temperature. Ultimately, it’s essential to pay attention to how you feel; your discomfort is a crucial indicator of your health.
