▶ When Is A Person Considered To Have A Fever?

Contents

1 Factors that can cause the temperature to vary
2 Normal temperature in adults
3 When to go to the doctor
4 Fever symptoms

Normal body temperature varies based on many factors, such as a person’s age, gender, and activity levels. The normal for an adult is around 37 ° C, but everyone’s body temperature is slightly different and can be consistently a little higher or lower.

Body temperature readings also vary depending on where a person takes it on the body. Rectal readings are higher than oral readings, while underarm readings tend to be lower.

Factors that can cause the temperature to vary

The age and sex of a person.
The time of day, which is usually lowest in the early morning and highest in the late afternoon.
High or low activity levels.
Intake of food and liquids.
For women, the stage of their menstrual cycle.
The method of measurement, such as oral, rectal, or underarm readings.

Normal temperature in adults

According to him General Hospital of Catalonia, a body temperature above 38 ° C in adults indicates fever. A normal body temperature for an adult, when taken orally, can range from 35.8 to 37.4 ° C, although different sources may give slightly different figures.

In adults, the following temperatures suggest someone has a fever:

At least 38 ° C is a fever.
Above 39.5 ° C it is a high fever.
Above 41 ° C it is a very high fever.

When to go to the doctor

A temperature between 38 and 40.5ºC caused by short-term illnesses should not cause harm significant in healthy adults. However, a moderate fever may be more of a concern for a person with existing heart or lung problems.
Call a doctor or emergency room immediately for temperatures above 40.5ºC or below 35 ° Cespecially if there are other warning signs, such as confusion, headaches, or shortness of breath. Temperatures above 41 can cause organ failure.
Doctors define hypothermia as a temperature that falls below 35 °, and it can be dangerous if not treated quickly.
If a temperature reading is unusually high or low, take another after about 5 to 10 minutes. If someone is not sure if the reading is correct, they can take it with a different thermometer.