Normal Body Temperature: Babies, Kids, Adults

Normal Body Temperature: Babies, Kids, Adults

What is a Normal Body Temperature?

The average "normal" body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), but this can vary depending on age and other factors. Taking your temperature orally, rectally, or in the armpit can also impact your reading.

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Understanding Body Temperature Ranges

A body temperature reading above or below the average doesn’t automatically mean you’re sick. Several factors can influence your body temperature, including age, sex, time of day, and activity level.

Healthy Body Temperature Ranges

Read on to learn about healthy body temperature ranges for babies, kids, adults, and older adults.

Body Temperature Ranges by Age

• Babies: 97°F (36.1°C) to 100°F (37.8°C)
• Kids: 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C)
• Adults: 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C)
• Older Adults: 95°F (35°C) to 98°F (36.7°C)

How to Take Your Temperature

There are four different ways to take your or a family member’s temperature. However, the reading can vary from one method to the next.

Recommended Methods by Age

• Babies: Oral or axillary (under the arm)
• Kids: Oral or axillary (under the arm)
• Adults: Oral or rectal
• Older Adults: Oral or axillary (under the arm)

Factors Affecting Body Temperature

German doctor Carl Wunderlich identified the average body temperature of 98.6°F (37°C) during the 19th century. However, many studies have since determined that that isn’t always the case.

Fever vs. Normal Temperature

A higher-than-normal thermometer reading can be a sign of a fever. Fever is defined as a temperature of 100.9°F (38.3°C) or higher. As mentioned previously, the exact reading is dependent upon a few factors.

Signs and Symptoms of Fever

Fevers can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms, including sweating, chills, headache, and more.

Body’s Temperature Control System

Our bodies have a built-in temperature control system. This operation raises the body temperature in response to disease and infection, which you can sometimes fight without any intervention.

Conclusion

The average normal body temperature is commonly accepted to be 98.6°F (37°C), but this can fluctuate based on age and various factors. How you measure your temperature can also affect your reading. That said, when you develop a fever, it usually goes away with rest. However, seek treatment if it becomes too high or lasts too long. Be mindful of your temperature getting too low as well, as hypothermia can also be life-threatening and should be treated immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is 98.6 a regular temperature?
A: 98.6 °F (37°C) is generally considered a normal temperature, though every person’s normal temperature is different and may be slightly lower or higher.

Q: Is 96.8 an average temp?
A: Though 96.8 °F (36°C) might be considered a low temperature, normal temperature is a range. Most people’s normal temperature falls between about 97°F (36°C) and 99°F (37°C), but it could be a little higher or lower.

Q: Is low temperature a kind of fever?
A: Temperature that’s too low is considered hypothermia. This serious condition occurs when you lose too much body heat. For adults, a body temperature that dips below 95°F (35°C) is a sign of hypothermia.