Body temperature can vary, and while an elevated temperature is a common indicator of illness, a lower-than-usual temperature can also be a cause for concern. Understanding these fluctuations is important, especially with viral infections like COVID-19. A temperature such as 95°F might signal a need for attention, moving beyond fever as the sole indicator of health.
Understanding Body Temperature
The average human body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), but it can vary slightly among individuals and throughout the day. A healthy oral temperature typically ranges between 97.3°F and 99.1°F (36.3°C and 37.3°C), though a wider normal range can exist. A single reading slightly outside this average does not automatically mean illness.
Several factors influence body temperature, including time of day, activity level, age, and hormonal fluctuations. For instance, temperature is lowest in the early morning and rises during physical activity. Older adults may have lower average body temperatures and are more susceptible to temperature changes due to reduced heat regulation.
A body temperature below 95°F (35°C) is medically defined as hypothermia, a condition where the body loses heat faster than it produces it. Mild hypothermia starts at 95°F (35°C). When body temperature drops to this level, the heart, nervous system, and other organs may not function properly.
Low Body Temperature and COVID-19
While fever is a common symptom of COVID-19, some individuals, especially the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, may present with atypical symptoms, including a lower-than-normal body temperature. A low temperature, such as 95°F, can occur with severe viral infections like COVID-19, indicating the infection’s severity.
A low temperature during a viral infection can result from the body’s impaired immune response. The release of immune molecules during viral infections can lead to temperature fluctuations, and in some cases, prevent a typical fever response, causing hypothermia. Severe illness, like COVID-19, can also lead to shock, a condition where organs do not receive enough oxygen, which may manifest with a low body temperature.
A low temperature with COVID-19 can be accompanied by other symptoms. These include chills, shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness, cold, pale skin, a slow heart rate, slow breathing, and weakness. Recognizing these symptoms is important, as they can signal a serious progression of the illness.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
A body temperature of 95°F (35°C) is classified as hypothermia and requires medical attention, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. If a low temperature persists or is joined by worsening signs, contact a healthcare professional or seek emergency services.
Immediate medical evaluation is needed for confusion, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, or severe fatigue. Bluish skin or lips, a weak pulse, or unresponsiveness also require urgent care. For vulnerable populations, such as infants, the elderly, or individuals with chronic health conditions, a low body temperature is particularly concerning and should be addressed promptly. While waiting for medical help, warm the person by moving them to a warmer place, removing any wet clothing, and wrapping them in dry blankets.