We have noticed that most of our patients tend to run in the high 97°F range (with non-contact infrared thermometers). This seemed to be the case no matter which of the thermometers we used.
The 98.6° average dates back to the mid-1800s. Dr. Carl Wundelich measured the armpit temperature of nearly 25,000 people and came up with an average of 98.6°F. New research indicates that the average temperature has declined approximately 1 whole degree to 97.6°F.
The reason for the decline is still under discussion but hypotheses range from lower metabolic rates to simply more accurate thermometers.
- More accurate thermometers- technological advances apply across science and better thermometers are included.
- Lower metabolic rates- sedentary lifestyles in developed countries had led to common overweight and obesity issues. The excess weight can cause lower metabolism which means your body makes less heat.
- Improvement in Infection control- running a fever or high body temperature creates a hostile environment for bacteria and viruses. With the advent of anti-microbial drugs, fever reducers, and the increase in natural medicine use many of the past common infections are now rare.
- You’re considered to have a fever if your temperature reaches 100.4° F.
- Just in case you are curious- measuring your temperature rectally is the most accurate gauge of you body’s temperature.
So, our detective work paid off and our investigation into the low temperature readings was solved. Though we still determine whether there may be another underlying cause if symptoms indicate the need to do so….
Scientific American – Normal Body Temperature is Surprisingly Less Than…
About the Author: Dr. Kris Ritchey