If our body temp is 98.6 degrees, why do we feel hot when we turn the thermostat to 80 degrees?

Answer 1

98.6 is a steady-state temperature. The body produces its own heat through metabolism. Ambient temperature removes heat from the body through radiant heat, convection, and conduction. Ideally, ambient air temperature to keep things perfectly in balance between body heat and the surroundings is around 72 F. Cooler than that and the body has a net heat loss and senses "cold", and responds by shivering or seeking covering or shelter. Warmer than that, and the body responds by sweating and increased respiratory rate.

Answer 2

The "normal" temperature is accepted to be 98.6. However, our bodies fluctuate tempertaures rapidly from minute to minute. It has been found that 98.6 is the normal temperature to maintain a homeostatic environment within the body, for optimum cellular health.

The rise is the thermostat creates a change in the external environment of the human organism. This change in the external environment causes a temporary alteration in the body's homeostatic environment, causing the body to react to the change. The "revving" of the body to correct this alteration of homeostasis, and produces heat. The heat byproduct is what causes us to feel "hot".

Answer 3

Also, I believe that 98.6 degrees is the core temperature, not the skin temperature. Therefore, because the skin is cooler, heat from external sources are more prominent. This isn't the best answser by any means, but hope it helps.

Answer 4

Our core body temp. is 98 degrees...at the extremities it's lower, around room temp, which is why 72 degrees feels comfortable

Answer 5

I think that part of it is that your body makes more heat than it can use. If the air is too hot, then you do not loose the extra heat fast enough.

And you also wear clothes, which slows down heat loss.