What is the significance of a body temperature of 97.3 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating hypothermia?

From the Guidelines

A body temperature of 97.3°F is considered normal and does not indicate hypothermia. According to the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1, hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature drops below the normal temperature range near 37° C, and mild hypothermia begins when the core temperature falls below 35° C. Given that 97.3°F is equivalent to approximately 36.3°C, it falls within the normal range and does not meet the criteria for hypothermia. Key points to consider include:

• Normal body temperature ranges from 97.0°F to 99.0°F (36.1°C to 37.2°C)
• Factors such as physical activity, eating, emotional state, menstrual cycle, and method of measurement can affect temperature readings
• If symptoms like chills, fatigue, or pain are present, it would be appropriate to monitor temperature and consult a healthcare provider if concerns arise. It's essential to note that the guidelines address mild to severe/profound hypothermia in children and adults, emphasizing the importance of assessing signs and symptoms, as core body temperatures may not always be readily available 1.

From the Research

Body Temperature Significance

The significance of a body temperature of 97.3 degrees Fahrenheit is related to the concept of hypothermia, which is generally defined as a body temperature below 95 degrees F 2. However, some studies suggest that older adults may have a lower normal body temperature range 3, 4.

Normal Body Temperature Range

• The normal body temperature range can vary depending on the measurement site, with ranges including:
  • Rectal: 36.32-37.76°C 5
  • Tympanic: 35.76-37.52°C 5
  • Urine: 35.61-37.61°C 5
  • Oral: 35.73-37.41°C 5
  • Axillary: 35.01-36.93°C 5
• Older adults (age ≥60) tend to have lower body temperatures than younger adults, with an average difference of 0.23°C 5

Hypothermia and Subnormal Temperature

• Hypothermia is typically defined as a body temperature below 95 degrees F 2
• Subnormal temperature is often classified as a body temperature below 97.7 degrees F 2
• A body temperature of 97.3 degrees Fahrenheit may be considered subnormal, but not necessarily hypothermic 2, 4

Age-Related Temperature Changes

• Older people may have altered thermoregulation, leading to lower body temperatures 3, 4
• The oldest old may not demonstrate a diurnal rise in body temperature 4