When is Body Temperature Too Low

Human beings are warm-blooded, i.e. they maintain an average temperature in any weather conditions. The normal body temperature of human beings is 98.6 °F or 37.0 °C. A slight rise or fall in the body temperature is considered normal, and is not a sign of worry. However, when the temperature rises very higher or falls very lower, it is definitely a sign of worry.

A rise in the body temperature is a fairly common condition which is known as fever. It can be a sign or symptom of a variety of causes and diseases. However, as the causes are limited, the condition is easy to diagnose. On the other hand, low body temperature can occur due to several underlying health conditions. When a person is exposed to very cold climate, he may have a body temperature lower than normal. The following are the other causes for the same:

• Addison's Disease
• Diabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Kidney failure
• Liver failure
• Shock
• Sepsis

Apart from these, potential causes also include use of certain medications like sedatives or diuretics. Similarly, one may experience body temperature too low frequently due to intake of alcohol and drug abuse.

The most obvious sign of low temperature is that the body feels cool to touch. Apart from that, the person may also experience other signs and symptoms:

• Shivering
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Slow heartbeats
• Slow breathing

Due to certain causes, the temperature may drop dangerously which may result in severe symptoms like fingers and toes turning purple. It should be noted that neither rise nor fall in the body temperature during pregnancy is normal, and hence, it should not be ignored. It is essential to keep a check on the changes in body temperature during pregnancy to prevent severe conditions.

In case low body temperature occurs due to some disorder or disease, the doctor will prescribe related treatment using medications or therapies. On the other hand, if it is caused due to minor conditions like being in the cold weather or in an air-conditioned room for long, one can definitely overcome it with the help of self-help methods at home.

When any of the above mentioned symptoms, the person should be covered in blankets, should wear warm clothes or have a hot drink to bring the body temperature back to normal. On the other hand, rubbing hands and feet together also help in generation of heat in the body. Pregnant women should immediately consult the doctor if they observe any severe variations in the body temperature.

As there are several causes related to body temperature too low, it should not be ignored. One should remember that a frequent low body temperature is as dangerous as a high temperature, and hence, it should be treated immediately. Take care!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.