RANGE OF TEMPERATURE 275 



These natural processes of mutual accommodation result in 

 preserving a necessary uniform temperature of the body, which 

 makes it independent, within reasonable limits, of external sur- 

 roundings. The normal temperature, 98.4 F., is maintained so 

 long as the proper balance is preserved between heat production 

 and heat escape. Elevation of temperature is caused when produc- 

 tion is too rapid or dissipation is too slow. Very high temperature 

 indicates excessive metabolism and impaired dissipation. (Another 

 result of excessive metabolism is seen in the wasting of the body in 

 fevers, as typhoid fever.) 



Subnormal temperature indicates diminished tissue change or 

 metabolism, suggesting impairment of vitality. (A temperature 

 of 77 F. is followed by death, as cell activity cannot go on in a 

 temperature so low.) 



Range of normal temperature. The normal adult tempera- 

 ture is 98 . 4 F. in the axilla, in the mouth slightly higher. It is a 

 degree higher in the rectum. 



During early life when metabolism is active it is slightly higher 

 than in later years. In old age it is often a degree higher than in 

 middle life. 



A difference of a degree is noted, in health, between the tem- 

 perature of early morning and evening, for example, at 5 A. M. and 

 5 p. M. 



Average range of body temperature for different ages: 



In infancy 99-99 . 5 



At puberty 99 



In adult life: 



Axillary 98 . 4 



Oral 98.8 



Rectal 99 . 2 



Practical Conclusions and Clinical Notes 



The temperature of a patient should be taken before a meal, 

 or after digestion, not during it. 



In cold weather hot foods containing fats are appropriate for 

 the generation of heat; in hot weather starchy foods and cool 

 drinks are in order. 



Alcohol causes a temporary sense of warmth by quickening the 

 circulation, but this is followed by dilation of the surface capillaries 



