Does your little one seem a little grumpy when you wake up in the morning? Does he feel a little hot? Then, as a mother, the first thing that comes to your mind is, "Oh, I don't know if my child has a fever." Then, you have to decide whether to send your child to school or `Daycare` or not. So, you quickly go and take the `thermometer` and put it in your child's armpit to check his temperature. Sometimes, when the temperature shows a low number, you may feel a little relieved. But at the same time, a small question arises in the corner of your mind, doesn't it? "Is this armpit temperature really accurate?" So today, let's talk about everything about taking a fever in the armpit, that is, measuring `(Axillary Temperature)`.
Simply put, what is an axillary temperature?
Taking a temperature from the armpit is a simple way to help you know if your child has a fever. We use a regular `(digital thermometer)` for this. In this, we insert the tip of the `thermometer` into the child's armpit, hold it for a while and wait for the `beep` sound. Then the child's body temperature is recorded on the `(display screen)`.
This method is very easy. The child does not feel any discomfort or pain. That is why many parents, as well as preschool teachers, use this method to quickly check for a fever.
But how accurate is this method?
Here's the most important question. To be honest, armpit temperature is not as accurate as other methods . For example, rectal temperature is fine, and oral temperature is much more accurate.
Think of it this way. Taking a temperature under the armpit is like looking over a pot covered with a bucket to see if the rice is cooked. We can get a rough idea. But, to know exactly if the rice is cooked, we have to open the lid of the pot and look, right? Similarly, when taking a temperature under the armpit, the tip of the thermometer only touches the child's skin. It does not measure the actual temperature inside the body. That is why the value it gives is always a little lower.
This means that taking a temperature from the armpit only gives us a rough idea. It is not a 100% accurate internal body temperature.
So what should we do? Should we add a degree?
Yes. The generally accepted method is to add ½ to 1 degree Fahrenheit (0.3 to 0.6 degrees Celsius) to the armpit temperature. This gives us a more accurate idea of the child's actual body temperature.
But here's something very important . If you've added a value to the temperature in this way, you should definitely mention it when you talk to your doctor. For example, say exactly, "Doctor, I took your baby's temperature in the armpit, and it was 99. I added 1 degree to that, and it's 100." Then the doctor can make an accurate decision about the child's condition.
Whenever possible, if you suspect a fever by taking a temperature in the armpit, it is best to confirm it using a rectal, oral, forehead, or ear temperature measurement method. You can ask your doctor which method is best for your child's age.
How do we accurately check for fever in the armpit?
It is very important to do this job correctly. Let's see how to do it step by step. You can use a regular `(digital thermometer)` for this. (If you have a glass `thermometer`, do not use it now. Don't forget to clean the `thermometer` well before and after using it.
| Steps | What to do and a simple explanation |
|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | First, remove any clothing that might be obstructing your child's armpits, as the tip of the thermometer needs to touch the skin directly . |
| 2. Turning on the thermometer | Press the button on the thermometer to turn it on. |
| 3. Placing in the armpit | Raise the child's arm slightly and place the silver tip of the thermometer in the small crease in the middle of the armpit. |
| 4. Lowering the hand | Place the thermometer, lower the child's arm back down, and hold it tightly against the body, covering the armpit well. The tip of the thermometer should not be visible. If you hold the child close to you, it will be easier to hold the child's arm with your hand. |
| 5. Waiting for the beep sound | When the thermometer finishes measuring the temperature, it will make a 'beep' 'beep' sound. After that sound, take it out. |
| 6. Recording the value | Write down the temperature on the screen. Then, as we discussed earlier, add ½ or 1 degree (F) to that value and write that down. If you are talking to a doctor, it is best to give both values. |
What is the normal temperature for different age groups?
"Normal body temperature" can vary slightly from person to person. It also varies depending on the time of day. But, we can get a rough idea.
Infants and young children (up to 5 years old)
The average armpit temperature for children from birth to about 5 years of age is about 98.24°F (36.8°C) . It is normal for it to be slightly higher or lower than this value.
However, if your baby's armpit temperature is 99°F (37.22°C) or higher , it is considered a fever.
Children over 5 years old and adults
If you are checking the temperature of a child over 5 years old, it is best to check the temperature by mouth whenever possible.
- Oral temperature: 100°F (37.77°C) or higher is a fever.
- Axillary temperature: The normal axillary temperature for adults can range from 95°F to 98.47°F (35.01°C to 36.93°C).
Your doctor can give you more information about what your normal body temperature is.
So, what is the final decision?
This is a familiar scene to all of us. Your child is not feeling well. You have to decide in the morning whether to send your child to school or not. You take the thermometer and check the temperature under the armpit. Maybe when the temperature shows a low number, you can breathe a sigh of relief. You can reassure yourself, "Hey, there's no fever."
But the truth is, a quick test using the armpit is better than nothing. But if you really suspect your child has a fever, use a more accurate method (oral, rectal, forehead, or ear) to confirm as soon as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns about your child's temperature, or the best way to check it, don't delay and call your doctor . It's the best thing you can do for yourself and your child.
Take-Home Message
- Taking axillary temperature is very easy, but it is the least accurate method available.
- Always add ½ to 1 degree Fahrenheit (0.3 to 0.6 Celsius) to your armpit temperature. And don't forget to tell your doctor that you did so.
- When taking a temperature, place the thermometer so that the tip touches the skin directly , covering the armpit well.
- If you suspect your child has a fever, it's best to confirm it using a more accurate method (such as oral or rectal).
- If you have any doubts or concerns about your child's fever, the best thing to do is to seek medical advice immediately .
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