Health Information
Body Temperature
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Body temperature is a measure of the body's ability to generate and get rid of heat.
When you tell your doctor about your temperature measurement, be sure to mention whether it was taken on the forehead or in the mouth, rectum, armpit, or ear.
| Normal: |
The average normal temperature is 98.6°F (37°C). But "normal" varies from person to person. Your temperature will also vary throughout the day, usually being lowest in the early morning and rising as much as 1°F (0.6°C) in the early evening. Your temperature may also rise by 1°F (0.6°C) or more if you exercise on a hot day. A woman's body temperature typically varies by 1°F (0.6°C) or more through her Reference menstrual cycle Opens New Window, peaking around the time of Reference ovulation Opens New Window. |
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| Abnormal: |
Oral, ear (tympanic), rectal, or temporal artery temperature
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Armpit (axillary) temperature
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A rectal or ear temperature of less than 97°F (36.1°C) means a low body temperature (hypothermia). |
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference November 13, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MD, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics |
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