What should armpit temp be

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Monitoring your body temperature can tell you important things about your health. Normal body temperature runs around Body temperature is often measured by placing a thermometer in the mouth. But there are four other ways to take body temperature, and these involve different body parts:. Ear, oral, and rectal temperatures are considered the most accurate readings of actual body temperature.

It can be a good way to screen for changes in body temperature. A digital thermometer is useful for taking underarm temperature. When taking axillary temperature, it can be useful to compare it to ear, oral, and rectal temperature readings, which are more precise.

Use the following chart to find the ear, oral, or rectal reading that corresponds to the axillary reading. Underarm temperature is considered the safest way to check the body temperature of children under 3 months old. Taking rectal temperature is a safe way to get a very accurate body temperature reading in young children. Ear temperature usually reads a bit lower than rectal temperature.

To take ear temperature, you need a special ear thermometer. Forehead temperature is the next most accurate reading behind ear, oral, and rectal temperatures. To take forehead temperature, use a forehead thermometer.

Some slide across the forehead others are held stationary in one area. If it breaks, you might be exposed to the toxic substance. Do not use an oral thermometer to take a rectal temperature, or a rectal thermometer for oral temperature taking. A digital thermometer can be used for both rectal and oral temperature taking.

Fever strips are not recommended because they do not give accurate readings. Clean the thermometer with cool, soapy water and rinse. Cover the silver tip with petroleum jelly such as Vaseline. Place your baby on their back with their knees bent.

Gently insert the thermometer in the rectum, about 2. After about 1 minute, you will hear the beep. Remove the thermometer and read the temperature. Clean the thermometer. Mouth The oral method is not recommended for children younger than 5 years old because it is hard for them to hold the thermometer under their tongue for long enough. Use a rectal or oral thermometer. Gently tug on the ear, pulling it back. You may opt-out of e-mail communications at any time by clicking on the Unsubscribe link in the e-mail.

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This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. First aid Fever: First aid. Sections Basics In-Depth Resources. Products and services. Thank you for Subscribing Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. A temperature of 38C or more is usually considered a high temperature fever.

If you feel hot or shivery, you may have a high temperature even if a thermometer says your temperature is below 38C. To protect others, do not go to places like a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Stay at home. Page last reviewed: 31 March Next review due: 31 March Home Common health questions Accidents, first aid and treatments Back to Accidents, first aid and treatments. How do I take a temperature?