Core body temperature

Core Body Temperature

Core body temperature refers to the temperature of the internal environment of the body. It is a critical physiological parameter that is tightly regulated by the body to ensure optimal functioning of enzymatic and metabolic processes. The average core body temperature for a healthy adult is approximately 37.0°C (98.6°F), although it can vary slightly among individuals and throughout the day.

Regulation of Core Body Temperature

The human body maintains its core temperature through a process known as thermoregulation. This involves a balance between heat production and heat loss, which is controlled by the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that acts as the body's thermostat.

Heat Production

Heat is produced in the body primarily through metabolic processes, including:

• Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The energy expended by the body at rest to maintain vital functions.
• Muscle Activity: Physical activity and shivering increase heat production.
• Hormonal Activity: Hormones such as thyroxine and adrenaline can increase metabolic rate and heat production.

Heat Loss

The body loses heat through several mechanisms:

• Radiation: Loss of heat in the form of infrared rays.
• Conduction: Direct transfer of heat through contact with cooler surfaces.
• Convection: Transfer of heat through air or water movement.
• Evaporation: Loss of heat through the evaporation of sweat from the skin surface.

Factors Affecting Core Body Temperature

Several factors can influence core body temperature, including:

• Circadian Rhythms: Core temperature typically fluctuates throughout the day, being lowest in the early morning and highest in the late afternoon and evening.
• Age: Infants and elderly individuals may have less efficient thermoregulation.
• Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures can challenge the body's ability to maintain core temperature.
• Health Status: Fever, illness, and certain medical conditions can alter core temperature.

Measurement of Core Body Temperature

Core body temperature can be measured using various methods, including:

• Rectal Thermometry: Considered the most accurate method for measuring core temperature.
• Oral Thermometry: Commonly used but can be influenced by recent eating or drinking.
• Tympanic Thermometry: Measures temperature from the ear canal and is quick and non-invasive.
• Temporal Artery Thermometry: Uses infrared technology to measure temperature from the forehead.

Also see

• Thermoregulation
• Hypothermia
• Hyperthermia
• Fever
• Basal Metabolic Rate