Temperature Examination

Temperature Examination

The concept of normal human body temperature, also referred to as normothermia or euthermia, varies depending on the location of measurement within the body, the time of day, and the individual's level of activity. There is no single numerical value that universally represents a normal or healthy temperature for all individuals across all situations and measurement sites.

Different areas of the body exhibit different temperatures. Measurements taken rectally or vaginally, or within body cavities, typically register slightly higher temperatures than oral measurements, while oral readings tend to be slightly warmer than skin temperature. The generally acknowledged average core body temperature, measured internally, is 37.5 °C (99.5 °F). Oral measurements typically fall slightly lower, around 37.0±0.5 °C, or 98.6±0.9 °F.

Despite these commonly cited figures, a broad range of temperatures has been observed in healthy individuals. In studies of normal adult men and women, oral temperatures have been recorded within the range of 33.2–38.2 °C (92–101 °F), rectal temperatures between 34.4–37.8 °C (94–100 °F), tympanic cavity temperatures within 35.4–37.8 °C (96–100 °F), and axillary temperatures ranging from 35.5–37.0 °C (96–99 °F).

Fluctuations in body temperature are influenced by the circadian rhythm, with the lowest temperature typically occurring during the latter half of the sleep cycle, known as the nadir. The body's temperature can also vary in response to factors such as hunger, fatigue, or exposure to cold.

Temperature regulation, or thermoregulation, is governed by a homeostatic mechanism that maintains the organism at an optimal operating temperature, impacting the rate of chemical reactions. While the average oral temperature for humans is 37.0 °C (98.6 °F), individual temperatures can vary. Furthermore, temperature levels fluctuate throughout the day in accordance with the person's circadian rhythm, with the lowest temperature typically occurring approximately two hours before awakening. Additionally, temperature levels are influenced by activities and environmental conditions.

Normal body temperature may exhibit variations of up to 0.5 °C (0.9 °F) from one day to the next.