Is 36.7 degrees a normal temperature for an adult?

36.7 degrees is generally a normal body temperature for an adult. A person’s normal body temperature can vary from person to person and during the day, but on average it is around 36.5–37.5 degrees. In this article, we discuss in more detail what normal body temperature is, what factors can affect it, and when to be concerned.

What is normal body temperature?

Normal body temperature varies slightly in different people and at different measurement times. The generally accepted average is around 37 degrees, but a temperature varying between 36.5 and 37.5 degrees is considered normal. This means that 36.7 degrees is a completely normal temperature for an adult.

Factors that affect body temperature

Many factors affect body temperature, such as:

  • Time of day: Body temperature is usually lowest in the morning and highest in the afternoon and evening.
  • Physical activity: Exercise and physical exertion can raise body temperature temporarily.
  • Eating: Eating and drinking can affect body temperature.
  • Hormonal changes: For example, women’s menstrual cycle can affect body temperature.
  • Ambient temperature: External temperatures can affect body temperature.

When should you be concerned?

Although 36.7 degrees is a normal body temperature, it is good to know when temperature changes can be a sign of something more serious. In the following situations, you should contact a healthcare professional:

  1. The body temperature rises above 38 degrees for no apparent reason.
  2. The body temperature drops below 35 degrees.
  3. Changes in temperature are accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe headache, confusion, chest pain or breathing difficulties.

Conclusion

36.7 degrees is the normal body temperature for an adult, and it belongs to the accepted range. Body temperature is affected by many factors and can vary throughout the day. It is important to know when temperature changes can be a sign of something more serious and when it is necessary to see a doctor.

For more information about body temperature and its variations, you can read for example Terveyskirjasto and From the Mayo Clinic website.