What is normal body temperature?

The average or normal human body temperature is generally considered to be 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it's important to note that body temperature can vary from person to person and may fluctuate slightly throughout the day. Factors such as age, physical activity, time of day, and overall health can influence body temperature.

Body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus, which is a small brain region responsible for controlling various bodily functions, including temperature regulation. The hypothalamus maintains a balance between heat production and heat loss to keep the body at a relatively constant temperature.

Normal body temperature ranges can vary slightly depending on the measurement method. For oral measurements, a temperature between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees Celsius (97.7 and 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit) is generally considered normal. Rectal temperature measurements tend to be slightly higher, with a normal range of 37.5 to 38.0 degrees Celsius (99.5 and 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit).

It's worth noting that individual variations exist, and some people may consistently have slightly higher or lower body temperatures than the average range. Therefore, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your body temperature or experience persistent fever (temperature above 38 degrees Celsius or 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit).