BLOG 437 BODY TEMPERATURE
The human body operates much like a furnace…. it
produces heat. Our body is working to keep us alive, and this generates heat.
When a person runs cold, the body is trying to communicate that something in
the production line isn’t right. Typically, body temperature ranges from 97
F to 99 F for adults, while children have a higher body temperature ranging
from 97.9 F to 100.4 F. Everyone’s body temperature is actually different and
the person next to you might have their furnace set a few degrees higher or
lower than you. Our body temperatures vary all throughout the day. This all
depends on your activity, age, sex, what you have had to eat or drink, and what
time of day it is. Body temperature also varies based on where you measure it. The
underarm pit will be hotter than around the mouth area.
When body temperature is above normal, this is called a
fever. A fever is considered anything above 100.4 F. The body is working to
fight off germs and getting sick, and this battle produces heat. The body is
doing what it is supposed to be doing, so a fever is not always a bad thing. However,
if a fever is associated with rash, vomiting, or headache, and persists for
more than 3 days, seeking a doctor’s help is advisable. Fevers should be taken
more seriously when it comes to children. Getting adequate rest, taking over
the counter medications such as ibuprofen, using cold compresses, or taking a
cold bath, can help alleviate a fever. The body goes to war when it comes to
infections but can be cooled down using these methods.
On the other hand, when body temperature is well below
normal, it called hypothermia. This
occurs when the body loses too much heat and it can be very serious, possibly
fatal. Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below 95 F. This low body
temperature is of particular importance when it comes to babies and the
elderly. This is usually a sign of sickness. Hypothermia can also be caused by malnutrition,
anorexia, certain medications, stroke, nerve damage, and alcohol and/or drug
use. It is important to help warm the body up using heating pads, putting on
layers of clothing, removing any wet clothing, drinking a warm herbal tea, or
sitting by a fire or heating lamp.
Hot or cold extremes are uncomfortable and form of
communication that the body is in fight or flight mode to help you. Listen to
your body when it speaks to you. Normal body temperature comes and goes
throughout the day, so always bring a jacket just in case and stay hydrated to
help regulate your furnace.
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