At what time of day is body temperature typically highest?

Body temperature follows a daily rhythm influenced by the circadian cycle, which causes variations throughout the day. It is typically lowest in the early morning and gradually increases throughout the day, reaching its highest point in the late afternoon and early evening. This peak is influenced by factors such as metabolic activity, physical activity, and hormonal changes that occur during this time.

In general, many individuals experience their highest body temperatures between 4 PM and 6 PM. This fluctuation is a normal physiological phenomenon, as body temperature can also be affected by activities, meals, and environmental conditions. Understanding these variations is important for accurately assessing a patient’s health status, particularly in clinical settings.