What Does Your Body Temperature Say? Don't Ignore These Signals!

The body temperature reflects the internal processes of the organism. Normal body temperature ranges between 36.1°C - 37.2°C. These values may vary depending on a person's age, physical activity, and daily condition.

Causes of High Temperature

Causes of High Body Temperature

An increase in body temperature (hyperthermia or fever) is the body's response to internal or external factors. The causes of high temperature can vary and are generally classified into the following categories:

1. Infections and Diseases
   One of the most common causes of elevated body temperature is infections. The body activates the immune system against infections, raising the temperature to limit the multiplication of microorganisms.

   Main infectious causes:

   • Viral infections: Flu, common cold, COVID-19, adenoviruses, etc.
   • Bacterial infections: Pneumonia, tonsillitis, bronchitis, urinary tract infections
   • Fungal and parasitic infections: Malaria, Candida infections

   In these cases, fever is a result of the immune system trying to destroy the infection.

2. Inflammatory Diseases and Autoimmune Reactions
   Sometimes, the body raises its temperature due to inflammatory processes or immune system attacks on its own cells.

   These diseases include:

   • Rheumatoid arthritis
   • Lupus disease
   • Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)

   In such conditions, fever is usually persistent and accompanied by other inflammatory symptoms.

3. Heatstroke and Sunstroke
   Prolonged exposure to the sun or staying in a very hot environment can cause excessive elevation of body temperature.

   Main causes:

   • Prolonged exposure to sunlight
   • Dehydration and heat imbalance
   • The body's inability to cool itself due to excessive physical activity

   Heatstroke requires immediate medical intervention, as it can be life-threatening.

4. Hormonal Imbalances and Endocrine Diseases
   Certain hormonal imbalances can affect the body's temperature regulation.

   Main causes:

   • Hyperthyroidism (Overactive thyroid gland): Increased metabolism can lead to elevated body temperature.
   • Menopause and hormonal changes: Especially in women, hot flashes during menopause can temporarily increase body temperature.

5. Allergic Reactions and Medication Side Effects
   Some medications and allergic reactions can cause fever.

   Main causes:

   • Antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
   • Vaccine reactions
   • The immune response caused by food or drug allergies

   In these cases, body temperature typically rises for a short period and returns to normal once the allergen is removed.

6. Oncological Diseases (Cancer)
   Some malignant tumors and types of cancer can cause a persistent rise in body temperature.

   Possible cancer-related causes:

   • Blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma)
   • Advanced malignant tumors
   • Inflammatory reactions caused by tumors

   In cases of chronic and unexplained fever, a medical examination is essential.

7. Nervous System and Brain Diseases
   The brain controls body temperature through a part called the hypothalamus. Any issue affecting this part can cause abnormal temperature regulation.

   Possible causes:

   • Brain injuries and trauma
   • Brain tumors and inflammatory processes (meningitis, encephalitis)
   • Neurological diseases and hypothalamic dysfunction

   In these cases, fever is usually accompanied by other neurological symptoms.

8. Psychological and Stress Factors
   In some individuals, high stress and emotional tension can also raise body temperature. This condition is commonly referred to as "psychosomatic fever."

   Causes:

   • Chronic stress and anxiety
   • Panic attacks
   • Nervous tension

   In such cases, the temperature increase is generally mild and normalizes with rest.

9. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders
   Metabolic disorders that regulate body temperature can also cause an increase in temperature.

   Main causes:

   • Imbalance in the body's energy regulation
   • Nutritional deficiencies (especially protein and vitamins)
   • Extreme weight loss or overeating

When to Seek Medical Help?

High temperature is the body's response to various factors and can sometimes be a sign of serious illness. If fever:
✅ Lasts more than 3 days
✅ Reaches 39°C or higher
✅ Is accompanied by nausea, fainting, or confusion
✅ Occurs in children or the elderly

In these cases, consulting a doctor is necessary. A proper diagnosis should be made, and appropriate treatment should be applied.