Question

Suppose your normal body temperature were lower than what it is. How would the sensation of hot and cold change?

Answer 1

If the normal body temperature, (37°C or 98.6°F) is lower than what it is, then it is called hypothermia.

In such a case, the body feels a cold sensation. When we are too cold, our blood vessels narrow. This reduces blood flow to our skin to save body heat. We may start to shiver. When the muscles tremble this way, it helps to make more heat.

Hypothermia can be serious or even deadly. Low body temperature usually happens from being out in cold weather. But it may also be caused by alcohol or drug use, going into shock, or certain disorders such as diabetes or low thyroid.

A low body temperature may occur with an infection. This is most common in newborns, older adults, or people who are frail. A very bad infection may also cause an abnormally low body temperature.