Human temperature during the day graph. Temperature curve. How is the examination carried out?
Body temperature provides information about physical condition body. Constantly fluctuating temperature readings may indicate the development of serious pathologies. Most often, a temperature of 36 to 37°C in an adult is considered normal; it drops to a minimum value at dawn, and rises to a maximum value in the evening.
Daily heat fluctuations human body depend on the activity of the functioning of organs and systems: the body cools slightly when it is at rest, but warms up a little when it performs intense physical activities.
Most often, slight temperature changes are recorded in the evening when going to bed and in the morning when waking up. But sometimes temperature fluctuations are noticed during the day, and this phenomenon is caused by the following reasons:
- too intense physical activity;
- prolonged exposure to heat or direct sunlight;
- digesting food after a hearty and satisfying lunch;
- emotional excitement or nervous shock.
In the above conditions, even in an absolutely healthy and resilient person, the body temperature rises to 37°C, that is, to the low-grade stage. And in this case there is no need to worry: to cool down a little, just lie quietly in a shaded place, step away from stress and worries, and relax.
It is necessary to sound the alarm only when hyperthermia occurs - a violation of the thermoregulation mechanism, accompanied by chest discomfort, headaches, and dyspepsia. In this situation, you should definitely go to the doctor, since the provocateurs of the disease are often disruptions in the functioning of the endocrine glands, allergic reactions, and muscular dystonia.
Causes of temperature fluctuations in women
Most often, sudden changes in temperature are recorded in pregnant women. This phenomenon is caused by the transformation hormonal levels, a significant increase in the concentration of the hormone progesterone in the blood. Typically, during pregnancy, body temperature rises and falls from 36.0 to 37.3°C.
Moreover, temperature fluctuations do not in any way affect the well-being of expectant mothers. They are observed mainly during the first two or three months of gestation, when the mother’s body gets used to its interesting situation. But for some women, the temperature fluctuates until the very birth.
Sharp temperature fluctuations pose a danger to the health of young mothers only if they are accompanied by a profuse rash on the skin, painful sensations in the abdomen, disruption of the urination process and other symptoms. Not only the pregnant woman herself, but also the baby in the womb can be seriously harmed. Therefore, if you experience the slightest discomfort due to temperature fluctuations during pregnancy, you should immediately go to the doctor.
Sharp jumps in body temperature are often noticed at the beginning of ovulation. At this time, temperatures jump from 36.0 to 37.3°C. In addition to temperature fluctuations, signs of ovulation include the following symptoms that appear in a woman:
- weakness, powerlessness;
- pain in the lower abdomen;
- improved appetite;
- swelling.
By the time menstruation arrives, the above symptoms disappear and body temperature stops jumping. Deterioration in the condition of a woman’s body during ovulation is not considered a pathology; in this case, there is no need to consult a doctor.
For the vast majority of older women, the temperature fluctuates by initial stages menopause. This phenomenon occurs due to a sharp decrease in the concentration of sex hormones in the blood. Almost all representatives of the fairer sex, when entering menopause, in addition to temperature fluctuations, experience the following symptoms:
- hot flashes;
- excessive sweating;
- promotion blood pressure;
- minor disturbance of heart function.
Fluctuations in body temperature during menopause are not harmful to health. But if a woman feels very bad, then it is better for her to consult her doctor. The healthcare professional may need to prescribe hormone therapy for the patient.
Thermoneurosis - the cause of temperature fluctuations
Often the provocateur of jumps in body temperature is thermoneurosis. In this situation, the body can heat up to 38°C. Typically, pathology occurs after experiencing stress and emotional shocks. Determining thermoneurosis in a patient is quite problematic. Most often, to diagnose a disease, doctors perform a so-called aspirin test - they give a sick person an antipyretic medicine and watch how the frequency and intensity of temperature fluctuations changes.
If after taking aspirin the temperature drops to normal and does not rise within 40 minutes, then we can say with one hundred percent certainty about thermoneurosis. In this case, the sick person requires restorative therapy.
The most common causes of temperature changes
In adults, body temperature sometimes jumps due to serious illnesses. Sudden temperature changes are provoked by the following pathologies:
- tumors;
- heart attack;
- spread of infection;
- purulent formations;
- inflammatory reactions;
- injuries to bones or joints;
- allergies;
- disorders of the endocrine glands;
- autoimmune diseases;
- dysfunction of the hypothalamus.
Also, body temperature jumps from 36 to 38°C with tuberculosis. Medical specialists cannot yet explain what causes this phenomenon, but they believe that the body reacts to pathogenic bacteria as if they were dangerous foreign elements.
In a person suffering from tuberculosis, the body temperature during the day either rises or falls by several degrees. Sometimes temperature fluctuations are so pronounced that you can build a rather sweeping graph based on them. Similar temperature jumps are observed during the formation of purulent abscesses.
An increase in temperature in the evening is sometimes observed in the presence of chronic diseases:
- sinusitis,
- pharyngitis,
- pyelonephritis,
- salpingo-oophoritis.
These pathologies are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, so their treatment should not be delayed. A sick person needs to undergo a medical examination, based on the results of which the doctor prescribes the most appropriate antibacterial medications.
If temperature fluctuations are caused by a growing tumor, then the method of treatment depends on the location, as well as on the malignancy or benignity of the tumor. Most often, the tumor formation is removed surgically, after which temperature fluctuations stop. If the temperature jumps due to a malfunction of the endocrine glands, then the sick person will experience the following symptoms:
- weight loss;
- sudden mood changes;
- nervousness, irritability;
- increased heart rate;
- disturbances in the functioning of the heart muscle.
If the above symptoms appear, you should definitely go to the doctor. To confirm the dysfunction of the endocrine glands, a sick person must undergo a medical examination, including the following procedures:
- clinical and biochemical blood test;
- general urine analysis;
- blood test for hormone concentrations;
- ultrasonic monitoring;
- electrocardiography.
If the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor prescribes optimal therapy for the patient.
How to get rid of temperature fluctuations?
Temperature changes in an adult are most often a normal phenomenon, but sometimes they warn of the development of pathological processes in the body. In order not to aggravate the situation, you should not self-medicate, but should go to a doctor. Only a medical specialist identifies the exact cause of temperature fluctuations and prescribes the most appropriate medications. Therapy may include the following medications:
- anti-inflammatory drugs;
- antiallergic drugs;
- hormonal agents;
- antibiotics;
- antiviral medications;
- antipyretic drugs.
Temperature fluctuations can be considered a protective reaction of the body. However, with sluggish inflammatory process the temperature usually does not rise above 37°C. A person simply does not notice such a slight increase; for a long time he may not even suspect that he is suffering from inflammation. Antipyretic medications can be used when the temperature rises above 38°C. With a slight increase in temperature, the body can easily overcome the disease on its own.
Prevention of temperature surges
To reduce daily fluctuations in body temperature, you need to strengthen your immune system. To do this you need to do the following:
- lead a correct lifestyle;
- devote time to physical exercise;
- eat a full and balanced diet, exclude harmful foods;
- stop drinking alcoholic beverages;
- Drink enough water during the day, at least two liters;
- harden the body;
- take vitamin and mineral complexes;
- consume daily fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods rich in vitamins and nutrients.
Thermoregulation is one of the most important abilities of our body. Temperature is maintained by the body at a certain level, reflecting its ability to produce heat and exchange with the environment. During the day, the temperature level may fluctuate, but only slightly. This is due to the metabolic rate: in the morning it is minimal, and in the late afternoon it increases by approximately 0.5°C.
Temperature of a healthy person
WITH early childhood we know: normal temperature person – 36.6°C. A slight deviation in one direction or another is allowed. Depending on the person’s condition, microclimate, daily rhythm and other parameters, it can range from 35.5 to 37.4°C. The average temperature of women is slightly higher than that of men by 0.5-0.7 °C.
Body temperature can also vary among representatives of different nationalities: for example, for the Japanese, its average value is 36 ° C, for Australians it is about 37. In different parts body, the thermometer readings also differ: in the armpit they are lower than on the toes.
During the day, the temperature of the same person can vary within one degree. The lowest value is reached at 4-6 am, and the highest at 4-8 pm. In women, temperature can vary depending on the day of the cycle. For some people, 38°C is considered normal and is not a sign of any disease.
Normal human body temperature is maintained at the same level thanks to the work of the hypothalamus and thyroid gland: thyroid hormones are responsible for metabolic processes. Estradiol affects basal temperature, it decreases as its amount increases. The process of thermoregulation is very complex and deviations from the norm should immediately alert you. An increase or decrease in temperature indicates that there are problems in the body that need to be addressed urgently.
Severely low temperature
You should worry when the thermometer shows less than 35.2°C. At a temperature of about 32.2 ° C, a person feels stunned, 29.5 - loses consciousness, and 26.5 leads to death in most cases.
Hypothermia may be caused by one of the following factors:
- disruption of the functioning of thermoregulatory centers in the central nervous system. This happens with organic brain lesions: tumors, injuries.
- hypothyroidism.
- paralysis, paresis, which lead to a decrease in muscle mass, and consequently to a decrease in heat production.
- exhausting diets and fasting lead to the body not having enough energy to produce heat.
- hypothermia is a person’s prolonged exposure to low temperatures when the body’s own regulatory mechanisms cannot cope with thermoregulation.
- dehydration: lack of fluid in the body leads to a decrease in metabolism.
- alcohol: ethanol disrupts all brain functions, including thermoregulatory ones.
- ionizing radiation: free radicals affect metabolism, resulting in a decrease in body temperature.
A moderate decrease in temperature (up to 35.3°C) may be due to the following reasons:
- overwork, prolonged stress, both physical and mental, chronic fatigue.
- disordered diet, unbalanced diet, physical inactivity.
- hormonal problems, pregnancy, menopause, diseases of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands.
- disturbance of carbohydrate metabolism due to liver diseases.
Low-grade fever
Do not underestimate a slight (37 - 37.5°C) increase in temperature: it may not pose any threat, but may indicate serious disturbances in the functioning of the body. Therefore, it is important to find out the cause of this condition.
Low-grade fever can result from:
- hard hard work in a hot environment, playing sports;
- sauna, hot bath, bath, solarium;
- increased production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland, which leads to increased metabolism;
- viruses, colds;
- hot, spicy food;
- inflammatory diseases in chronic form.
Severe illnesses that pose a threat to human life also lead to prolonged low-grade fever. Tuberculosis, oncology early stages give a slight increase in temperature as one of the symptoms of the disease. Therefore, it is very important not to knock it down, but to consult a doctor to find out the reasons. Symptoms such as weakness, sweating, weight loss and inflammation of the lymph nodes should be especially alarming. Additional examination will help identify the cause and eliminate it in time.
Febrile temperature
A temperature above 37.6°C indicates the presence of inflammation in the body. In this way, the body fights pathogens and creates unfavourable conditions for their existence. Therefore, you should not immediately knock it down with medication. Up to 38.5°C, you can simply drink a lot of water to reduce the concentration of toxins - this way they are eliminated from the body through sweat and urine.
Pyretic temperature
A temperature above 39°C indicates an acute inflammatory process. If the thermometer shows more than 39, doctors recommend starting to take antipyretics (the most popular drug is aspirin). In this condition, convulsions are possible, so you need to be more careful for those people who have concomitant diseases.
Frequent culprits of this condition are bacteria and viruses that enter the body through burns, injuries, hypothermia, and airborne droplets. A doctor can tell you exactly this after taking all the tests. At high temperatures, a person feels weakness, loss of strength, headache, chills, and body aches. Appetite is greatly reduced, sweating and arrhythmia are observed.
Hyperpyretic temperature
You should sound the alarm if the thermometer mark has crossed 40.3°C. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention. The critical temperature is 42°C: metabolism in the brain tissue is disrupted, which leads to death.
Body temperature is an important indicator of the functioning of the body. If its value changes, this may be a consequence of either natural or pathological processes occurring in the body.
Moreover, its minimum value occurs in the morning (4-5 hours), and the maximum value is reached at approximately 17 hours.
If the temperature jumps during the day (36 - 37 degrees) it is explained by the physiological state of systems and organs, when the increase temperature values necessary to activate their work.
When the body is at rest, a decrease in body temperature occurs, so jumps from 36 to 37 degrees during the day are regarded as normal.
The human body is a heterogeneous physical environment where areas are heated and cooled differently.
Contrary to popular belief, measuring temperature in the armpit may be the least informative, and this often causes unreliable results.
In addition to the armpit, body temperature can be measured:
- in the ear canal
- in the oral cavity,
- rectum.
Medicine distinguishes several types of temperature. An elevated temperature is considered to be 37.5 degrees, at which there are other uncomfortable manifestations.
Fever is a temperature of unknown origin, in which the only symptom is a prolonged rise in temperature from 38 degrees. The condition lasts for 14 days or more.
A temperature of up to 38.3 degrees is considered subfebrile. This is a condition of unknown origin in which a person periodically has a fever without additional symptoms.
Specifics of physiological states
In addition to wakefulness and sleep, temperature fluctuations during the day are caused by the following processes:
- overheating,
- active physical activity,
- digestive processes,
- psycho-emotional arousal.
In all of these cases, temperature jumps from 36 to 37.38 degrees can be observed. The condition does not require correction, since the increase in temperature occurs against the background of the natural physiological states of the body.
The exception is cases when temperature jumps from 36 to 37 degrees are accompanied by additional symptoms, namely:
- headache,
- discomfort in the heart area,
- the appearance of a rash,
- shortness of breath,
- dyspeptic complaints.
If you have these symptoms, you should consult your doctor to rule out the development of allergic reactions, vegetative-vascular dystonia and endocrine disorders.
Among other things, horse racing is also determined by physiological specificity general temperature bodies during pregnancy. At this time, significant changes in hormonal levels occur, since large quantities progesterone is produced, which leads to jumps in body temperature from 36 to 37 degrees.
As a rule, changes in temperature indicators are observed in the first trimester, but there are cases when the condition continues throughout pregnancy, and the reasons should be determined.
Changes in body temperature pose an additional danger if you have:
- catarrhal phenomena,
- dysuric signs,
- stomach ache,
- rashes on the body.
Consultation with doctors is indicated to exclude diseases caused by pathogenic agents.
Ovulation can also change a woman's body temperature from 36 to 37 degrees. Typically, the following symptoms are present:
- irritability,
- weakness,
- headache,
- increased appetite,
- swelling.
If in the first days of menstruation these unpleasant symptoms disappear and the temperature drops to 36 degrees, then there is no need for medical examinations.
Also, the indicator may change during menopausal syndrome, which is also caused by changes in the amount of hormones. The woman does not understand why her condition has changed. There are additional complaints:
- hot flashes,
- increased sweating,
- increased blood pressure,
- disruptions in the functioning of the heart.
Such temperature changes are not dangerous, but if there are other complaints and the cause is determined, in some cases hormone replacement therapy is indicated.
Temperature jumps can occur with thermoneurosis, that is, a rise in temperature to 38 degrees after stress. It is possible to draw a conclusion about the presence of this pathology by excluding more significant causes for the appearance of hyperthermia.
Sometimes it may be indicated to perform an aspirin test, which involves taking an antipyretic drug at a high temperature, and then monitoring the dynamics.
If the indicators are stable, then 40 minutes after taking the drug, one can more confidently assert the presence of thermoponeurosis. In this case, treatment will consist of prescribing general restorative procedures and sedatives.
The most common reasons temperature jumps from 36 to 37 degrees in adults are:
- heart attacks,
- purulent and infectious processes,
- tumors
- inflammatory diseases,
- autoimmune conditions,
- injuries,
- allergies,
- endocrine pathologies,
- hypothalamic syndrome.
Abscess, tuberculosis and other infectious processes are most often the reasons why there is a change in temperature from 36 to 38 degrees. This is due to the pathogenesis of the disease.
When tuberculosis develops, fluctuations between evening and morning temperatures often reach several degrees. If we're talking about In severe cases, the temperature curve has a hectic shape.
This picture is also typical for purulent processes. In such a situation, the temperature rises to 38 degrees or higher. When opening the infiltrate behind a short time the indicator returns to normal.
Also most of other inflammatory and infectious diseases have a symptom such as sudden changes in temperature during the day. In the morning it is lower, in the evening it is higher.
The temperature may rise in the evening if chronic processes such as:
- adnexitis,
- sinusitis,
- pharyngitis,
- pyelonephritis.
Hyperthermia in these cases occurs with additional unpleasant symptoms, so you should consult a doctor for examination and treatment for a specific disease. Treatment with antibiotics, which is often prescribed for inflammatory diseases, will help normalize temperature indicators.
If hyperthermia is caused by a tumor process, then depending on its location, it proceeds differently. So, there may be sudden temperature changes or it will remain at a constant level for a long time.
To clarify the diagnosis, a comprehensive examination should be carried out, which includes:
- hardware methods
- instrumental analysis,
- laboratory diagnostics.
A timely diagnosis will lead to effective treatment diseases. This approach is also available in hematology, where temperature jumps from 37 to 38 degrees can occur due to various forms anemia or leukemia.
Temperature fluctuations can occur due to pathology of the endocrine system. If there is thyrotoxicosis, which occurs with hyperfunction of the thyroid gland, then the following additional symptoms should serve for consultation with an endocrinologist:
- weight loss,
- irritability,
- sudden mood changes,
- tachycardia,
- interruptions in heart function.
In addition to general clinical tests, ultrasound and ECG, a study of thyroid hormones is prescribed, then a treatment regimen is created.
Principles of therapy
As is known, in order to prescribe optimal treatment, the cause of symptoms must be identified. If the temperature is elevated, the patient is examined.
When the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment should be prescribed directly based on the characteristics of the pathology. It can be:
- antibiotic therapy,
- antiviral agents,
- anti-inflammatory drugs,
- antihistamines,
- hormone therapy,
- general strengthening measures,
An increase in temperature is a protective reaction that allows the body to effectively and quickly fight pathogenic elements.
The prescription of antipyretics is not justified if the temperature is up to 37 degrees. In most cases, antipyretic medications are prescribed at temperatures above 38 degrees.
Drinking plenty of warm fluids is also recommended, which increases sweating and promotes heat transfer. It is necessary to provide cool air in the room where the patient is. Thus, the patient’s body will have to warm the inhaled air, while giving off heat.
As a rule, thanks to the actions taken, the temperature drops by a degree, which means the patient’s well-being improves, especially with colds.
Conclusion
Based on the above, it is worth emphasizing that temperature jumps can be seen in both physiological and pathological conditions. To confirm the safety of hyperthermia, many diseases must be excluded.
If a person has a body temperature of 37 to 38 degrees, within a few days you should consult a doctor and undergo a medical examination. If a pathogenic agent is identified, therapeutic procedures must be started immediately. Interesting video This article logically completes the topic of temperature.
“The norm for each person is an objective, real, individual phenomenon... A normal system is always an optimally functioning system.”
V. Petlenko
Body temperature is a complex indicator of the thermal state of the human body, reflecting difficult relationships between heat production (heat production) of various organs and tissues and heat exchange between them and external environment. average temperature The human body typically fluctuates between 36.5 and 37.2 degrees Celsius, due to internal exothermic reactions and the presence of "safety valves" that allow excess heat to be removed through sweating.
The “thermostat” (hypothalamus) is located in the brain and is constantly engaged in thermoregulation. During the day, a person’s body temperature fluctuates, which is a reflection of circadian rhythms (more about which you can read in the previous issue of the newsletter - “Biological rhythms” dated September 15, 2000, which you will find in the “archive” on the newsletter website): the difference between temperature body early in the morning and in the evening reaches 0.5 - 1.0°C. Temperature differences between internal organs (several tenths of a degree) were detected; the difference between the temperature of internal organs, muscles and skin can be up to 5 - 10°C.
In women, temperature varies depending on the phase menstrual cycle, if a woman’s body temperature is usually 37°C, it drops to 36.8°C in the first days of the cycle, before ovulation it drops to 36.6°C, then, on the eve of the next menstruation, it rises to 37.2°C, and then again reaches 37°C. In addition, it has been established that in men the temperature in the testicular area is 1.5 ° C lower than on the rest of the body surface and the temperature of some parts of the body differs depending on physical activity and their positions.
For example, a thermometer placed in the mouth will show a temperature 0.5°C lower than that of the stomach, kidneys and other organs. Temperature various areas body of a conventional person at temperature environment 20°С internal organs- 37°C armpit - 36°C deep muscular part of the thigh - 35°C deep layers of the calf muscle - 33°C elbow area - 32°C hand - 28°C center of the foot - 27-28°C The critical body temperature is considered 42°C, when it causes a metabolic disorder in the brain tissue. The human body is better adapted to cold. For example, a drop in body temperature to 32°C causes chills, but does not pose a very serious danger.
At 27°C, coma occurs, cardiac activity and breathing are impaired. Temperatures below 25°C are critical, but some people manage to survive hypothermia. Thus, one man, covered with a seven-meter snowdrift and dug out five hours later, was in a state of imminent death, and his rectal temperature was 19°C. He managed to save his life. There are two other cases where patients who were hypothermic to 16°C survived.
Fever
Hyperthermia is an abnormal increase in body temperature above 37°C as a result of illness. This is a very common symptom that can occur when there is a problem in any part or system of the body. Not falling for a long time An elevated temperature indicates a dangerous condition of a person. Elevated temperature can be: low (37.2-38°C), medium (38-40°C) and high (over 40°C). Body temperature above 42.2°C leads to loss of consciousness. If it does not subside, brain damage occurs.
Hyperthermia is divided into intermittent, temporary, permanent and recurrent. Intermittent hyperthermia (fever) is considered the most common type, characterized by daily temperature changes above normal. Temporary hyperthermia means a daytime decrease in temperature to normal levels, and then a new increase above normal. Temporary hyperthermia over a wide temperature range usually causes chills and increased sweating. It is also called septic fever.
Constant hyperthermia is a constant increase in temperature with small differences (fluctuations). Recurrent hyperthermia means alternating febrile and apyretic (characterized by the absence of elevated temperature) periods. Another classification takes into account the duration of hyperthermia: short (less than three weeks) or prolonged. Prolonged hyperthermia can occur when the temperature rises for unknown reasons, when careful examination cannot explain the causes. In infants and children younger age observed heat for longer periods of time, with greater fluctuations and faster temperature rises than in older children and adults.
Possible causes of hyperthermia
Let's consider the most likely options. Some should not cause you concern, but others may make you worry.
Everything is fine
Mid-menstrual cycle(of course, if you are a woman). For many representatives of the fairer sex, the temperature usually rises slightly during ovulation and normalizes with the onset of menstruation. Return to measurements after 2-3 days.
Evening has come.
It turns out that temperature fluctuations in many people can occur within one day. In the morning, immediately after waking up, the temperature is minimal, and in the evening it usually rises by half a degree. Go to bed and try to measure your temperature in the morning. You recently played sports and danced.
Physically and emotionally intense activities increase blood circulation and warm up the body. Calm down, rest for an hour and then put the thermometer under your arm again. You are slightly overheated. For example, you just took a bath (water or sun). Or maybe you drank hot or intoxicating drinks or simply dressed too warmly? Let your body cool down: sit in the shade, ventilate the room, remove excess clothing, drink soft drinks
. So how? 36.6 again? And you were worried! You have experienced severe stress.
There is even a special term - psychogenic temperature. If something very unpleasant has happened in life, or maybe there is an unfavorable atmosphere at home or at work that makes you constantly nervous, then perhaps this is the reason that “warms you up” from the inside. Psychogenic fever is often accompanied by symptoms such as general poor health, shortness of breath and dizziness. Low-grade fever is your norm. There are people for whom normal value
the marks on the thermometer are not 36.6, but 37 °C or even a little higher. As a rule, this applies to asthenic boys and girls who, in addition to an elegant physique, also have a fine mental organization. Do you recognize yourself? Then you can rightfully consider yourself a “hot thing.”
It's time to see a doctor! If you do not have any of the above circumstances and at the same time measurements taken with the same thermometer over several days and in different time
days show inflated numbers, it is better to find out what this may be connected with. Low-grade fever can accompany diseases and conditions such as:
Thyrotoxicosis.
In addition to elevated temperature, nervousness and emotional instability, sweating and palpitations, increased fatigue and weakness, weight loss against the background of normal or even increased appetite are most often noted. To diagnose thyrotoxicosis, it is enough to determine the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood. Its decrease indicates an excess of thyroid hormones in the body. Iron-deficiency anemia. Often, iron deficiency occurs due to hidden bleeding, minor but constant. Often their causes are heavy menstruation (in particular with uterine fibroids), as well as stomach ulcers or duodenum
, tumors of the stomach or intestines. Therefore, it is imperative to look for the cause of anemia.
Symptoms include weakness, fainting, pale skin, drowsiness, hair loss, brittle nails. A blood test for hemoglobin can confirm the presence of anemia. Chronic infectious or autoimmune diseases, as well as malignant tumors.
As a rule, in the presence of an organic cause of low-grade fever, an increase in temperature is combined with other characteristic symptoms: pain in different parts of the body, weight loss, lethargy, increased fatigue, sweating. When palpated, an enlarged spleen or lymph nodes may be detected.
Usually, finding out the reasons for the appearance of low-grade fever begins with a general and biochemical analysis of urine and blood, X-ray of the lungs, and ultrasound of the internal organs. Then, if necessary, more detailed studies are added - for example, blood tests for rheumatoid factor or thyroid hormones. If there is pain of unknown origin and especially with sudden weight loss, consultation with an oncologist is necessary. Post-viral asthenia syndrome.
Occurs after suffering from acute respiratory viral infection. Doctors in this case use the term “temperature tail”. A slightly elevated (subfebrile) temperature caused by the consequences of an infection is not accompanied by changes in tests and goes away on its own. But, in order not to confuse asthenia with incomplete recovery, it is better to donate blood and urine for tests and find out whether leukocytes are normal or elevated. If everything is in order, you can calm down, the temperature will jump and jump and over time it will “come to its senses.” In practice, this cause of elevated temperature is rare, but if there is a source of infection, it must be treated. After all, it poisons the entire body.
Thermoneurosis.
Doctors consider this condition as a manifestation of vegetative-vascular dystonia syndrome. Along with low-grade fever, there may be a feeling of lack of air, increased fatigue, sweaty limbs, and attacks of causeless fear. And although this is not a disease in its pure form, it is still not the norm. Therefore, this condition must be treated. To normalize the tone of peripheral vessels, neurologists recommend massage and acupuncture. A clear daily routine, adequate sleep, walks are useful. fresh air , regular hardening, sports (especially swimming). Often stable positive effect
provides psychotherapeutic treatment.
Interesting Facts Highest body temperature
July 10, 1980 at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, NY. Georgia, USA, 52-year-old Willie Jones was admitted with heatstroke. His temperature turned out to be 46.5° C. The patient was discharged from the hospital after 24 days. The most low temperature human body
was registered on February 23, 1994 in Regina, Ave. Saskatchewan, Canada, to 2-year-old Carly Kozolofsky. After the door of her house was accidentally locked and the girl was left in the cold for 6 hours at a temperature of -22°C, her rectal temperature was 14.2°C
From the Guinness Book of Records
Temperature in some animals:
Bat in hibernation - 1.3°
Golden hamster - 3.5°
Elephant - 3.5°
Horse - 37.6°
Cow - 38.3°
Cat - 38.6°
Dog - 38.9°
Ram - 39°
Pig - 39.1°
Rabbit - 39.5°
Goat - 39.9°
Chicken - 41.5°
Lizard in the sun - 50-60°C.
Body temperature is a complex indicator of the thermal state of the human body, reflecting the complex relationship between heat production (heat production) of various organs and tissues and heat exchange between them and the external environment. The average human body temperature usually ranges between... between 36.5 and 37.2 degrees Celsius, due to internal exothermic reactions and the presence of "safety valves" that allow excess heat to be removed through sweating.
Temperature differences between internal organs (several tenths of a degree) were detected; the difference between the temperature of internal organs, muscles and skin can be up to 5-10°C. Temperature of various areas of the body of a conventional person at an ambient temperature of 20°C: internal organs - 37°C; armpit - 36°C; deep muscle part of the thigh - 35°C; deep layers of the calf muscle - 33°C; elbow area - 32°C; hand - 28°C center of foot - 27-28°C. It is believed that measuring temperature in the rectum is more accurate because the temperature here is less affected by the environment.
Rectal temperature is always higher than the temperature in any part of the body. Higher than in the oral cavity by 0.5 ° C; than in the axillary region by almost a degree °C and 0.2 °C higher than the blood temperature in the right ventricle of the heart.
Critical body temperature
The maximum temperature is 42°C, at which metabolic disorders occur in the brain tissue. The human body is better adapted to cold. For example, a drop in body temperature to 32°C causes chills, but does not pose a very serious danger.
The minimum critical temperature is 25°C. Already at 27°C, coma sets in, cardiac activity and breathing become impaired. One man, covered with a seven-meter snowdrift and dug out five hours later, was in a state of imminent death, and the rectal temperature was 19°C. He managed to save his life. There are also cases where patients who were hypothermic to 16°C survived.
Interesting Facts(from the Guinness Book of Records):
The highest temperature recorded was July 10, 1980, at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, USA. Georgia, USA. 52-year-old Willie Jones was admitted to the clinic with heatstroke. His temperature turned out to be 46.5°C. The patient was discharged from the hospital only after 24 days.
The lowest documented human body temperature was recorded on February 23, 1994 in Canada, for 2-year-old Carly Kozolofsky. After the door of her house was accidentally locked and the girl was left in the cold for 6 hours at a temperature of −22°C, her rectal temperature was 14.2°C.
For humans, the most dangerous thing is elevated temperature - hyperthermia.
Hyperthermia is an abnormal increase in body temperature above 37°C as a result of illness. This is a very common symptom that can occur when there is a problem in any part or system of the body. An elevated temperature that does not subside for a long time indicates a dangerous condition of a person. The following types of hyperthermia are distinguished: subfebrile - from 37 to 38°C, moderate - from 38 to 39°C, high - from 39 to 41°C and excessive, or hyperpyretic - over 41°C.
Body temperature above 42.2°C leads to loss of consciousness. If it does not subside, brain damage occurs.
Possible causes of hyperthermia
If the temperature rises above normal, be sure to consult a doctor to find out possible reason hyperthermia. A temperature rise above 41°C is a reason for immediate hospitalization.
Causes:
1. Immune complex disorder.
2. Infectious and inflammatory diseases.
3. Tumors.
4 . Thermoregulation disorder. A sudden and sharp increase in temperature is usually observed in life-threatening diseases such as stroke, thyrotoxic crisis, malignant hyperthermia, as well as damage to the central nervous system. nervous system. Low and moderate hyperthermia is accompanied by increased sweating.
5. Medications. Hyperthermia and rash usually occur due to increased sensitivity to antifungal drugs, sulfonamides, penicillin antibiotics, etc. Hyperthermia can be observed during chemotherapy. It can be called medicines, causing sweating. Hyperthermia can also occur with toxic doses of certain drugs.
6. Procedures. Temporary hyperthermia may occur after surgery.
7. Blood transfusion also usually causes sudden fever and chills.
8. Diagnostics Sudden or gradual onset of hyperthermia sometimes accompanies radiological examinations in which contrast media are used.
And the easiest way is to trust a thermometer!
Today, the entire variety of thermometers can be divided according to the principle of operation into 2 groups:
Mercury thermometer
Everyone knows him. It has a traditional scale, is quite lightweight, and gives accurate readings. However, measuring the temperature of a child, for example, has a number of disadvantages. The baby needs to be undressed, and to do this, it is difficult to disturb him if he is sleeping; it is difficult to keep a mobile and capricious baby in place for 10 minutes. And it is extremely easy to break such a thermometer, and it contains MERCURY!! Mercury - chemical element Group II additional subgroup periodic table Mendeleev's elements A simple substance at room temperature is a heavy, silvery-white, noticeably volatile liquid, the vapors of which are extremely toxic.
If you inhale fumes from even a tiny amount of this liquid for a long time, you can get chronic poisoning. It lasts for a long time without clear symptoms of the disease: general malaise, irritability, nausea, weight loss. As a result, mercury poisoning leads to neurosis and kidney damage. So you need to remove this silvery substance carefully and quickly.
Interesting Facts:
Mercury is used to make measuring instruments, vacuum pumps, light sources and in other areas of science and technology. The European Parliament has decided to ban the sale of thermometers, blood pressure meters and barometers containing mercury. This was part of a strategy aimed at seriously reducing the use of mercury and, accordingly, pollution of the environment with this toxic substance. Now EU citizens can measure the temperature at home (air or body - it doesn’t matter) only with the help of new devices that do not contain mercury, for example, electronic thermometers or, suitable for some applications, alcohol thermometers. Or rather, this ban will work in full force by the end of 2009: within the next year, the relevant laws must be adopted by the parliaments of the EU countries, and another year is given to manufacturers of measuring instruments for restructuring. Experts say that the new rules will reduce mercury emissions into nature by 33 tons per year.
Digital thermometers.
This group also includes infrared ear and forehead thermometers
Advantages:
- measurement time: 1-3 minutes for electronic, and 1 second for infrared;
- absolutely safe - does not contain mercury;
- similar in weight and dimensions to mercury;
- temperature sensor readings or infrared sensor transmitted to the LCD display with an accuracy of a tenth of a degree;
- sound alarm;
- memory function;
- automatic shutdown nutrition;
- life time regular battery two to three years;
- the plastic case is shock-resistant and even water-resistant;
Methods of measuring with a digital thermometer:
- standard, axillary (in the armpit);
- oral (in the mouth);
- rectal (in the anus);
- principle of measuring the amount of reflected energy infrared radiation from the eardrum of the ear and nearby tissues (in the ear canal).