What is the normal rectal temperature?

The temperature in the rectum is below 37.5 degrees. Any temperature above this is considered a fever.

Normal body temperature is generally represented by oral, rectal and axillary temperatures, among which the rectal temperature is closest to the deep body temperature at 37.5 degrees. The body temperature of a normal person is relatively constant, and is maintained in a balanced state through the temperature regulation centers in the brain and hypothalamus.

Rectal temperature refers to the temperature measured in the human rectum. An important indicator reflecting body temperature. It mainly reflects energy metabolism and organ activity. Internal body temperature is usually measured with a thermometer in the mouth, under the arm or in the anus. Oral and axillary temperatures are easily affected by many factors, while rectal temperature reflects body temperature quite accurately.

The upper end of the rectum is at the level of the third sacral vertebra, connected to the sigmoid colon, and connected to the anal canal at the dentate line. About 12-15cm long. The upper end of the rectum is similar in size to the colon, and its lower end expands into the rectal ampulla, which is a temporary storage site for feces before it is discharged. The lowest end becomes thinner and connects to the anal canal. The position of the rectum in the pelvic cavity is closely related to the ventral surface of the sacrum and has the same curvature as the sacrum. The rectum has curves that bulge to the left and right in the frontal plane. When performing sigmoidoscopy, these curves must be paid attention to to avoid damaging the intestinal wall.