What is the normal body temperature for an adult?

The normal body temperature for an adult is considered to be 98.6°F. This value is widely recognized as the average temperature of a healthy adult when measured orally, although normal body temperature can vary slightly from person to person and can range from about 97°F to 99°F depending on several factors, such as the time of day, activity level, and the method of measurement.

Using 98.6°F as a benchmark allows healthcare providers to establish a standard for detecting fever or hypothermia in patients, facilitating accurate assessments of health status. The significance of this value is rooted in historical studies that established it as an average, which has been used in clinical settings for many years.

Other temperature measurements falling outside of this range might be associated with variations in individual health or external factors, and while these temperatures may be seen, they do not reflect the universally accepted normal for adults as effectively as 98.6°F does.