Reasons Your Body Temperature Might Be Low

If you've taken your temperature and noticed it's lower than the typical 98.6°F, you might be wondering what that means. While body temperature can naturally vary, a reading consistently below 97.8°F could signal something more than just being chilly.

So, what’s behind a lower-than-usual body temp? Here’s what to know about possible causes, how to respond, and when it’s time to speak with your doctor.

Common Causes of a Low Body Temperature

Not all dips in body temperature are cause for alarm sometimes it’s simply your environment or body’s natural rhythms at work. But in other cases, it can point to something more serious.

1. Exposure to Cold Weather

Spending time in cold conditions especially with inadequate clothing or wet garments can quickly lower body temperature. If it drops to or below 95°F, hypothermia may be setting in. Symptoms of hypothermia include:

• Shivering (which may stop as it worsens)

• Confusion and slurred speech

• Slow breathing or heart rate

• Drowsiness and loss of coordination

This is a medical emergency. If suspected, move to a warm location, remove wet clothes, and seek emergency care immediately.

2. Age-Related Changes

Older adults often experience lower body temperatures due to natural changes in skin, fat distribution, and metabolism. A 2022 study found that older adults are more susceptible to heat loss, especially in cold environments.

3. Medical Conditions

Several health issues can cause or contribute to lower body temperature, including:

• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid slows down metabolism, which can reduce core temperature.

• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar deprives your body of the energy needed to regulate temperature.

• Circulatory problems: Poor blood flow can cause hands, feet, and extremities to feel especially cold.

• Vitamin deficiencies: Low levels of iron or vitamin B12 can affect temperature regulation.

• Sepsis: This serious infection can cause body temperature to drop instead of rise, especially in older adults.

• COVID-19: In some cases, a low-grade temperature rather than a fever has been reported.

4. Medication Side Effects

Certain drugs may interfere with your body’s ability to maintain a normal temperature. These include:

• Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone)

• Beta blockers (e.g., propranolol)

• Opioids (e.g., morphine, fentanyl)

• Sedatives and anesthetics

• Antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine, amitriptyline)

If you suspect a medication is lowering your temperature, consult your doctor don’t stop medications without medical guidance.

5. Natural Fluctuations and Hormones

Your body temperature naturally changes throughout the day. It tends to be lowest in the early morning and rises in the evening. Hormonal shifts, such as during menstruation or menopause, can also affect body temperature.

How to Take Your Temperature Accurately

Before you jump to conclusions, make sure your thermometer reading is reliable. Factors like physical activity, recent food or drink, and even the body part used for measurement can influence your results.

1. Avoid taking your temperature right after:

   • Exercise

   • A hot bath or shower

   • Drinking hot or cold beverages

   • Smoking

2. Know your thermometer type:

   • Rectal readings are closest to core body temperature.

   • Oral thermometers are next best, especially when used correctly.

   • Ear, forehead, and armpit thermometers are less accurate, particularly during fever or hypothermia.

A 2015 review of 75 studies found that peripheral thermometers (like wrist or forehead sensors) can vary by more than 0.5°F, which can be significant when assessing for illness.

How to Safely Raise a Low Body Temperature

If your body temp feels low but you're otherwise feeling okay, try:

• Dressing in warm, layered clothing

• Drinking a warm (non-alcoholic) beverage

• Moving your body with light activity

• Using a heating pad or blanket (avoid direct skin contact)

If you're concerned about persistent coldness or your temperature drops significantly (below 95°F), seek medical attention.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Low body temperature becomes more concerning when it:

• Falls below 97°F consistently, without cold exposure

• Is paired with symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or weakness

• Accompanies signs of infection or chronic illness

• Occurs while taking medications that affect body regulation

• Happens suddenly, especially in infants or older adults

A healthcare provider can run tests to check thyroid function, vitamin levels, or look for underlying infections or circulatory concerns. Early diagnosis is key to managing or reversing more serious causes.

The Bottom Line

Body temperature isn’t a fixed number it’s influenced by your age, health, environment, and even the time of day. While a slightly low temp isn’t always a red flag, it’s worth paying attention to patterns, especially when paired with other symptoms.

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