Is a Consistent Ear Temperature of 37.2°C Considered a Fever?

A body temperature of around 37.2 degrees Celsius is generally considered to be within the normal range and is not typically classified as a fever. A fever is usually defined as a body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher?

I would like to ask if an ear temperature consistently around 37.2°C is considered a fever.
If it remains at this level, should I get a rapid test?

ti ruo duo bing, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/03

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine

A general (core) body temperature above 37.5°C is considered a fever.
Your temperature has consistently been around 37.2°C, which does not qualify as a fever.
This is simply a characteristic of your physiology or may be due to a higher metabolic rate.
It is not considered abnormal.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2016/04/03

More Info

A consistent ear temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is generally not considered a fever. In medical terms, fever is typically defined as a body temperature exceeding 38°C (100.4°F) when measured via the ear or rectally. For adults, the threshold for fever is often set at 37.6°C (99.7°F) or higher, depending on the method of measurement and individual variations. Therefore, if your ear temperature consistently remains at 37.2°C, it is within the normal range and does not indicate a fever.

It's important to note that body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors, including physical activity, time of day, and even emotional state. For example, body temperature tends to be lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening. Additionally, individual differences in metabolism and physiology can lead to variations in baseline body temperature. Some people naturally have a slightly higher or lower normal body temperature.

If you are experiencing other symptoms, such as fatigue, sweating, or a feeling of being overheated, it may be worth considering other factors that could contribute to these sensations. Dehydration, for instance, can lead to feelings of warmth and fatigue. Ensuring adequate hydration, especially in warmer weather or after physical exertion, is crucial for maintaining overall health.

Regarding the question of whether you should undergo a rapid test (快篩), it largely depends on your overall health status and any accompanying symptoms. If you are feeling well and do not exhibit any signs of illness—such as cough, sore throat, or gastrointestinal symptoms—there may be no immediate need for testing. However, if you have been exposed to someone with a known infectious disease (like COVID-19) or if you develop additional symptoms, it would be prudent to seek testing and medical advice.

In summary, a consistent ear temperature of 37.2°C is not classified as a fever, and it is generally not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms or risk factors. If you have ongoing concerns about your temperature or health, consulting with a healthcare professional is always a good idea. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history.

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