Body temperature
Normal body temperature is a range. The following table shows that this normal range also varies by site. Therefore, measurements from different sites should not be directly compared.
Normal ranges by site: |
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Axillary1: | 94.5 | – | 99.1 | °F | 34.7 – 37.3 °C |
Oral1: | 95.9 | – | 99.5 | °F | 35.5 – 37.5 °C |
Rectal1: | 97.9 | – 100.4 | °F | 36.6 – 38.0 °C | |
ThermoScan2: | 96.4 | – 100.4 | °F | 35.8 – 38.0 °C | |
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•A person’s normal temperature range tends to decrease with age. The following table shows normal ThermoScan ranges by age.
Normal ThermoScan ranges by age2:
0 | – 2 years | 97.5 | – 100.4 | °F | 36.4 – 38.0 °C | |
3 | – 10 years | 97.0 | – 100.0 | °F | 36.1 – 37.8 °C | |
11 | – 65 years | 96.6 | – | 99.7 | °F | 35.9 – 37.6 °C |
| > 65 years | 96.4 | – | 99.5 | °F | 35.8 – 37.5 °C |
The range of normal also varies from person to person and fluctuates throughout the day. It is therefore important to determine normal temperature ranges. This is easily done using Braun ThermoScan. Practice taking temperatures on yourself and healthy family members to determine the normal temperature range.
Note: When consulting your physician, communicate that the ThermoScan temperature is a temperature measured in the ear and if possible, note the individual’s normal ThermoScan temperature range as additional reference.
1.Chamberlain, J.M., Terndrup, T.E., New Light on Ear Thermometer Readings, Contemporary Pediatrics, March 1994.
2.Chamberlain, J.M., et al., Determination of Normal Ear Temperature with an Infrared Emission Detection Thermometer, Annals of Emergency Medicine, January 1995.
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