When is a low adult body temperature dangerous?

Answer 1

The ideal temperature for the human body varies but is always around 37°C. The body can drop to around 36°C and can cause mild to moderate shivering. This temperature, however is still quite normal and the body usually drops to this in sleep. It is usually considered that at any temperature under 35°C, the body drops into a state of hypothermia. At this temperature, body extremities turn numb, intensive shivering starts and skin discolouration can appear. When the body gets to around 34°C, the loss of movement of the bodies extremities can happen. Below this temperature drowsiness, confusion, sluggish bodily movements, hallucinations and loss of shivering will happen. Once the body reaches below 31°C, the bodies heart rhythm is likely to be disrupted.

These can all vary depending on the human and can be affected by factors such as how strong their cardiovascular system is. For example, an individual with a naturally low blood pressure may feel the effects of severe cold at a higher temperature to an individual who is in the peak of their physical condition.

It is always important to ensure that your temperature gets no lower than 35°C.

Answer 2

It depends which method that you use to check it, but a core body temp (measured rectally, temporally, or inside the bladder via catheter) is the way that one should confirm a low body temperature. The definition of hypothermia (low body temperature) is a core temp below 950 F. Any temp below this number is defined by the following criteria.

• Mild hypothermia - Core temperature 32 to 35ºC (90 to 95ºF)

• Moderate hypothermia - Core temperature 28 to 32ºC (82 to 90ºF)

• Severe hypothermia - Core temperature below 28ºC (82ºF)

Answer 3

below 95 degrees

Answer 4

42

Answer 5

Infectious

Answer 6

Sick