The normal body temperature varies depending on the person, age, activity, and time of day. The average normal body temperature is generally accepted as 98.6°F (37°C), but newer studies suggest that the average person today actually runs a little cooler than that, somewhere between 97.5°F (36.4°C) and 97.9°F (36.6°C) . However, not everyones "normal" body temperature is the same, and it can be a whole degree different than someone elses. For a typical adult, body temperature can be anywhere from 97°F to 99°F. Babies and children have a little higher range: 97.9°F to 100.4°F. Body temperature normally changes throughout the day and is lowest in the early morning.

Its important to note that a body temperature higher than your normal range is a fever, and anything above 100.4°F is considered a fever. A fever is a sign that your body is fighting off germs, but if your temperature is 103°F or higher or if youve had a fever for more than 3 days, you should call your doctor. On the other hand, if your body temperature dips too low, it can be very serious, even fatal. Hypothermia is when your body temperature goes below 95°F.