The human body maintains an average core temperature of 98°F to 100°F when the ambient temperature is between 68°F and 130°F, according to Arthur C. Guyton, author of "Basic Human Physiology: Normal Function and Mechanisms of Disease." If the ambient temperature falls outside of this range, you may feel cold or hot. Other times, you may feel hot or cold because of illness. Whatever the reason, you can help your body naturally regulate its core temperature by taking a few simple steps.
Step 1
Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. If you must spend an extended amount of time in very hot or cold environments, dress appropriately; layer your clothing in cold weather, and wear light, breathable fabrics in hot climes.
Step 2
Pay attention to your body's cues and don't inhibit the body's natural heating and cooling mechanisms. Drink plenty of water when exercising or otherwise exerting yourself. Take a break and rest if you begin to feel dizzy, lightheaded or have severe cramps. If you feel cold, begin shivering or have goosebumps, get up and move around; the moderate activity will help to raise your body temperature.
Step 3
Eat healthfully, get plenty of sleep and wash your hands often to avoid illness. Many viruses, including the common cold and the flu, and bacterial illnesses, such as bronchitis and strep throat, cause a fever that can lead to a very uncomfortable and dangerous spike in body temperature.
Step 4
Alert health care professionals to the drugs that cause you to experience an allergic reaction. If you begin a new medication and notice a rise in body temperature or you develop a fever, consult your doctor. Antibiotics, antihistamines, antidepressants, some vaccines and several narcotics can trigger a fever.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor if you feel cold often, without any apparent reason. This may indicate a condition called hypothyroidism in which an underactive thyroid causes chronic low body temperature in addition to other symptoms, which may include fatigue, stiffness in the joints, unexplained weight gain and constipation. The Mayo Clinic reports that the condition is simple and safe to treat with a synthetic hormone once diagnosed.
Tips and Warnings
- The standard body temperature is 98.6°F, but can vary slightly by person due to age or activity level. Medical standards determine a fever to be a core temperature in excess of 100.4°F due to this variance.
- See a doctor if you have a fever that lasts more than a few days, as it may indicate a serious illness.
