Experiencing hypothermia is a critical situation that, if not addressed promptly, can result in damage to the brain and heart failure. Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 95°F (35°C) due to excessive loss of heat.

Have you ever wondered about the average normal body temperature?

• The average normal body temperature typically ranges from 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C), with 98.6°F (37°C) being the standard.
• Individuals with a body temperature of 96.6°F (35.9°C) are considered to have low body temperature, especially older adults and infants.

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Hypothermia or low body temperature occurs when the body loses more heat than it generates, often due to exposure to cold temperatures or water.

Causes of hypothermia can include inadequate clothing in cold weather, prolonged exposure to cold without protection, living in overly cold environments, or falling into cold water.

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There are 14 common signs and symptoms of hypothermia, such as shivering, slurred speech, cold or numb extremities, slow breathing, weak pulse, and more.

1. Shivering
2. Slurred speech
3. Cold and numb hands, feet, and difficulty in tasks
4. Slow, shallow breathing
5. Weak pulse
6. Clumsy movements
7. Apathy
8. Drowsiness
9. Confusion
10. Memory loss
11. Stiff muscles
12. Cold to touch body
13. Red, cold skin in babies

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Various factors such as age and tolerance levels influence an individual’s response to cold temperatures, with exhaustion, old age, young age, alcohol or drug use, and certain medical conditions increasing the risk of hypothermia.

SLIDESHOW

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If someone displays signs of hypothermia, it’s important to follow these first-aid tips before seeking medical help:

1. Avoid massaging
2. Move to warm surroundings
3. Remove wet clothes and cover with blankets
4. Place on a warm surface
5. Offer warm, sweet liquids
6. Apply warm compress carefully
7. Avoid direct heat
8. Perform CPR if necessary

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To combat hypothermia, remember to follow the COLD principle – cover adequately, avoid overexertion, dress in layers, keep dry, and protect exposed areas from frostbite.

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A fever indicates a body temperature above normal and is the body’s response to potential infections. While the average body temperature is 98.6°F, fever thresholds vary for adults and children.

• Adult fever: Above 100.4°F
• Children fever: Above 100.4°F (rectal), 99.5°F (oral), or 99°F (axillary)

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A low-grade fever between 100.4°F and 102°F may not require treatment, except for infants or in the presence of severe symptoms. Seek medical attention for high or persistent fevers, accompanied by specific symptoms.

Urgent medical assistance is necessary for fevers above 105°F that do not respond to treatment.

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Fever is the body’s response to infections or stress and is not a standalone disease. Common causes of fever include various infections, illnesses, autoimmune conditions, and inflammatory diseases.

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Accurately measure fever with a thermometer orally, rectally, or axillary. Ear thermometers can also provide temperature readings.

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Explore information on body temperature norms and hypothermia prevention for better health outcomes.

Sources:Body temperature norms,Hypothermia,Prevent Hypothermia & Frostbite

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Enhance your knowledge about fever management and essential first-aid techniques to effectively handle various health conditions.

Hypothermia can escalate to a medical emergency when the body temperature drops significantly. Watch out for symptoms like shivering, slurred speech, confusion, and reduced heart rate.

healthdirect Australia offers a free service where you can consult with a nurse or doctor for guidance on appropriate actions.

If your baby under 3 months old has a fever exceeding 38°C, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital emergency department.

Explore the fascinating world of fever, its causes, and management tips for a better understanding.

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• Fever is the body’s natural response to infection.
• It can cause high temperature, sweating, and chills.
• Take your temperature with a thermometer to check for fever.
• Rest, remain cool, and stay hydrated if you have a fever.
• If you experience severe symptoms like headache or confusion, consult a doctor.

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Having a fever indicates elevated body temperature above normal levels, usually caused by infection or other factors.

A normal body temperature ranges around 36°C to 37°C, varying based on factors like age, activity, and time of day.

If your temperature reaches 38°C or higher, it’s likely you have a fever.

To diagnose a fever, measure the body’s temperature using a thermometer through various methods.

Get a reliable thermometer from a pharmacy or store, ensuring it’s clean and following instructions for accurate readings.

If caring for a child with a fever, refer to specific guidelines for children’s fevers.

Remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest when you have a fever to help your body fight off infection.

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A high temperature or fever typically starts at 38°C and may present symptoms like sweating, chills, and muscle aches.

In addition to these symptoms, fevers can also cause fatigue, headaches, and a loss of appetite. It is important to stay hydrated and rest when experiencing a fever to allow your body to fight off the infection causing the elevated temperature.

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Fever is a crucial function of the immune response, signaling that the body is actively fighting infection.

While most fevers result from viral infections, bacterial infections can also trigger fever.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS—Use the Symptom Checker to determine if medical attention is necessary.

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Doctors can diagnose the cause of your fever through questions about symptoms and a physical examination.

Some cases may require additional tests based on accompanying symptoms, such as swabs or urine samples.

Inform your doctor about recent travel history for accurate diagnosis.

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If your baby under 3 months old has a fever exceeding 38°C, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital emergency department.

If a fever persists for over three days without improvement, consult a doctor for further evaluation.

Immediate medical attention is necessary for specific cases like post-surgery, recent travel history, or other concerning symptoms.

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Notify a healthcare provider promptly if a fever accompanies severe symptoms like headache, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

• a severe headache
• sensitivity to bright light
• an unusual skin rash
• a stiff neck
• vomiting
• confusion
• drowsiness
• difficulty breathing
• abdominal (tummy) pain
• hallucinations
• seizures or muscle spasms

For child care, visit the emergency department in specific scenarios involving infants or severe distress.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE—Explore services like doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals using the Service Finder.

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When dealing with a high temperature, follow essential steps to manage your condition effectively. If concerns persist, seek professional medical advice.

Keep hydrated

Stay well-hydrated by consuming clear, non-alcoholic fluids, and maintain a comfortable ambient temperature.

Keep cool

Wear light clothing, avoid heavy bedding, and regulate room temperature to prevent overheating and exacerbating fever.

Avoid cold baths or sponging as they may exacerbate your discomfort.

If you have a fever, it is advisable to rest and refrain from strenuous activities until your symptoms subside.

Medicines for fever

Avoid taking fever medications unless you are feeling discomfort.

If you are experiencing discomfort, you can consider taking pain relief medications such as:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)

Prior to taking any medication, ensure that it is safe considering:

• any existing medical conditions
• other medications being taken
• pregnancy or breastfeeding

There are, however, some steps you can take to help prevent fevers:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to prevent the spread of germs
• Get vaccinated to protect yourself against certain infectious diseases
• Practice good hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing
• Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support your immune system
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Remember, while fevers are a natural response to illness, it’s important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you are concerned about your symptoms.

Complications of fever

Febrile convulsions are seizures that occur in children due to fever. They typically occur when a child’s temperature rises quickly.

About 1 in 30 children between 6 months and 6 years may experience febrile convulsions. Most children who have them will not have a recurrence.

While febrile convulsions do not have long-term effects, consulting a doctor if concerned is recommended.

It is important to note that febrile convulsions are usually harmless and do not cause any lasting damage to the brain.

Parents can help prevent febrile convulsions by controlling their child’s fever with appropriate medication and keeping them cool during a fever spike.

Resources and support

If you are concerned about your symptoms, you can contact the healthdirect helpline at 1800 022 222 (NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24/7 to assist.

Sources:

• QLD Health (What is a fever)
• SA Health Paediatric Unit (Fever in Children)
• The Sydney Children’s Hospital Network (Fever)
• Healthy WA (Clean-up guide for small mercury spills in the home)
• Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service (Fever in children)
• The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne (Fever in children)
• RACGP (Fever)

Last reviewed: March 2024

If you require immediate medical assistance, please call emergency services or visit your nearest emergency department.

Recommended links

• Medicine recommendations for children (opens in a new window)
  choosingwisely.org.au
• 5 questions to ask your doctor (opens in a new window)
  choosingwisely.org.au

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Need more information?

These reputable sources have more information on this topic.

Fever and high temperature: kids and teens | Raising Children Network

If your child’s temperature exceeds 38°C, it likely indicates a fever. It is a sign of illness. Here’s what to do when your child has a fever.

Read more on raisingchildren.net.au website

Fever in Children – Rahma Health

A fever is characterized by a temperature above 38 degrees celsius.

Read more on Rahma Health website

Fever – Better Health Channel

A slight fever up to 39?C can actually aid the immune system in combatting infections.

Read more on Better Health Channel website

Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi and is commonly seen in returning travelers from developing nations in Australia.

Read more on MyDoctor website

A fever occurs when the body temperature rises above normal, learn more about measuring temperature, managing a fever, and when to consult a doctor.

Read more on MyDoctor website

Fever in babies

Discover how to take your baby’s temperature, understand a normal temperature for babies, and know what steps to take if your baby has a fever.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Fever in babies and children – infographic

Learn what to do if your child has a fever, when to seek medical help, and how to manage your child’s fever at home.

Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website

Fever | Children’s Health Queensland

Understand the causes of fever, ways to manage it, and when professional help is necessary.

Read more on Queensland Health website

Fever factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network

Fevers are a result of the body elevating its temperature to combat illness and infection.

For more information, visit the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network website.

Febrile convulsion factsheet | The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network

Febrile convulsions, or seizures, occur when the body loses control of movement temporarily due to high fever.

For more information, visit the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network website.

Hypothermia: Reversible Causes of Cardiac Arrest | Ausmed

Hypothermia happens when the core body temperature drops below 35°C (95°F). It can be primary, from extreme cold, or secondary, associated with acute events or illness.

Learn more on the Ausmed Education website.

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Related pages

• Infographic: Fever in infants and children
• Understanding fever in children

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• Types of thermometers
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• Best practices for taking temperature readings
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