> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sonohealth.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Low Body Temperature: What It Means and When to Worry > What a reading below the normal range means, common harmless causes, the warning signs of hypothermia, and when a low temperature needs medical attention. We tend to worry about fevers, but a temperature reading on the *low* side raises questions too. Often it's harmless or a measurement quirk — but a truly low body temperature can be serious. A body temperature below 95°F (35°C) defines hypothermia and is a medical emergency — call 911. Confusion, intense shivering then stopping, slurred speech, or drowsiness with cold exposure needs immediate care. ## What is a normal body temperature? Normal averages around **98.6°F (37°C)** but genuinely ranges from about **97–99°F (36.1–37.2°C)** and varies by person, time of day, and measurement method. It runs lowest in the early morning. So a reading of 97.2°F is usually within normal limits, not "low." ## Common, usually harmless reasons for a low reading * **Measurement technique** — a cold forehead, a poorly positioned probe, or the [wrong method](/thermometer/how-to-take-accurate-temperature) often reads low. * **Time of day** — early-morning temperatures are naturally lower. * **Cold environment** — being chilled lowers skin temperature, especially with infrared forehead readings. * **Age** — older adults can run slightly cooler. Re-check with good technique and a warm, settled body before concluding a reading is truly low. ## When is a low temperature a concern? A persistently low reading taken correctly — or any reading approaching **95°F (35°C)** — is worth medical attention, particularly with symptoms. In babies and older adults, low body temperature can sometimes be a sign of illness or infection rather than just being cold, so it shouldn't be ignored. ## Hypothermia warning signs Hypothermia (below 95°F) can cause shivering, slurred speech, clumsiness, confusion, and drowsiness, and it's an emergency. Get the person warm and dry and call 911. In infants, cold skin with unusual sleepiness or poor feeding needs urgent care. ## Getting a reliable reading Use the [same method consistently](/thermometer/forehead-vs-ear-vs-oral), make sure the person is warmed and settled, and follow your device's instructions. If a correctly taken reading stays low or comes with symptoms, contact a healthcare provider. *** **Related:** [Fever Guide](/thermometer/fever-guide) · [How to Take an Accurate Temperature](/thermometer/how-to-take-accurate-temperature) · [Forehead vs Ear vs Oral](/thermometer/forehead-vs-ear-vs-oral) · [Fever in Children](/thermometer/fever-in-children-guide)