US Medical Term · emergency
Body Temperature
Temperatura corporal
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Body Temperature |
| Spanish (Español) | Temperatura corporal |
| Chinese (中文) | 體溫 |
| Korean (한국어) | 체온 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Nhiệt độ cơ thể |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Temperatura ng katawan |
| Portuguese (Português) | Temperatura corporal |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | อุณหภูมิร่างกาย |
| Japanese (日本語) | 体温 |
What it means
Body temperature is measured in Fahrenheit (F) or Celsius (C) in US hospitals. Normal adult temperature is approximately 98.6°F (37°C), though it can vary slightly by individual and time of day. A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher often signals infection. Temperatures at or above 104°F (40°C) or below 95°F (35°C, hypothermia) are emergency situations. Hospitals may measure temperature orally (mouth), rectally, in the ear, on the forehead, or via a special catheter or probe for ICU patients. Persistent or very high fever may lead to diagnostic tests and immediate treatment.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My child has a high body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
Mi hijo tiene una temperatura corporal alta de 103 grados Fahrenheit.
How are you taking my temperature in the hospital?
¿Cómo me toman la temperatura en el hospital?
Her temperature is too low; the nurse said that is also dangerous.
Su temperatura es demasiado baja; la enfermera dijo que eso también es peligroso.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026