Should you check your little one's temperature from their armpit? (Axillary Temperature) This is exactly how it's done!

When your baby has a cold or feels hot, it's normal to feel a little scared. You think, "Oh, my baby doesn't know he has a fever." So the first thing we do is take a thermometer and take his temperature. Taking a child's temperature can sometimes be a bit difficult, especially when you have a baby who can't hold a thermometer in their mouth. An easy method that many parents use in such cases is to take his temperature from the armpit. Today, we'll talk about this method of taking a temperature from the armpit ( Axillary Temperature ), how exactly it is done, and what things to be careful about.

What is armpit temperature testing? Why do we use this method?

Simply put, "Axillary Temperature" is a method of measuring body temperature by placing a thermometer under the armpit. This is a very convenient method that is often used for small babies, that is, children who have difficulty holding a thermometer in their mouth. Imagine how difficult it is to hold a squirming little one in one place, ask them to open their mouth, and hold the thermometer in their mouth. At times like these, taking a temperature in the armpit is very useful.

However, we should also be aware of this. The temperature measured in the armpit is not as accurate as the rectal temperature – that is, the temperature measured in the rectum of a small baby – or the oral temperature of a slightly older child. This is because the armpit measures the temperature of the skin surface. This can be slightly different from the actual temperature inside the body (Core Body Temperature).

But don't worry! Taking a temperature under the armpit is a great way to get a rough idea of ​​whether your child has a fever . This is especially helpful in an emergency at night, or before you can see a doctor.

How accurate is this method? What do we need to know?

As mentioned earlier, the temperature reading from the armpit can be slightly lower than other methods. On average, there can be a difference of 0.3 to 0.6 degrees Celsius (0.3°C - 0.6°C). This means that if your child's temperature is normal but you feel hot or your child seems uncomfortable, it's best to talk to a doctor.

Imagine this: Your baby's armpit temperature shows 37.2°C (Celsius). We don't usually consider that a fever. But if your baby isn't drinking milk, isn't playing, and is lethargic, then it's not a good idea to just wait. It's important to pay attention to not only the temperature, but also your baby's behavior .

Sometimes doctors say, "If the armpit temperature looks high, let's take another look." So this can be used as a preliminary test.

Be sure to consider these things before checking your armpit temperature!

Before you take your baby's temperature from the armpit, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. If you don't do these things correctly, the reading from the thermometer may be inaccurate.

• Type: Always use a digital thermometer. Don't use the old glass thermometers, which contain mercury. If they break, the mercury is very dangerous for you and your baby. Digital thermometers are easy to use, safe, and give you quick results.
• Check if the baby is warm: If your baby has just come out of the bath, or if he has been well wrapped up and warm, such as with blankets, you should wait about 20-30 minutes before checking his temperature. Otherwise, the thermometer may show an incorrect, high value due to the heat on the surface of the skin. Think about it, we also feel hot when we wake up after being well wrapped up. That's how it is.
• The armpit should be dry: Before taking the temperature, if your child's armpit is sweaty and wet, gently wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Moisture can affect the temperature reading.

Okay, so how do you check your armpit temperature accurately? Step by step

Now let's see how to accurately measure a fever from the armpit. If you follow these steps correctly, you can still get a rough idea of ​​your temperature , even if it's not exactly accurate.

1. Prepare the thermometer:

• First, clean the end of the bamboo skewer (usually the silver tip) with soap and water. Alternatively, you can wipe it with an alcohol swab. If you used soap, rinse it well and dry it.
• Then turn the thermometer `ON`. It will usually display an `L` or a zero. This means that the thermometer is ready to measure temperature.

2. Prepare the baby:

• If your child is old enough to understand, simply tell them what you are going to do. They won't be scared if you say something like, "Let's put this under your armpit for a moment and see if there is a fever."
• If the baby is peeing , you can do this by talking to him softly or distracting him with a toy.
• Lift the child's top garment slightly on one side and expose the armpit. Do not let the clothing get caught in the armpit.

3. Place the bamboo skewer in the armpit:

• Now place the tip of the thermometer (the silver tip) directly in the middle of the armpit, making good contact with the skin. It is best if the tip of the thermometer is pointing upwards towards the side of the baby's head. Never place it over clothing.If that happens, you won't get the correct value.

4. Fold your arms across your chest:

• After placing the bamboo skewer in the armpit, take the child's arm on that side and fold it across the chest, covering the armpit. As if he were holding his own shoulder on the other side. When you hold your arm tightly like this, the bamboo skewer is firmly stuck inside the armpit and does not move.
• If it's a very small baby, you may need to hold their hand gently to keep the bamboo skewer from moving around.

5. Wait patiently for the 'beep' sound:

• Most digital thermometers make a 'beep...beep...' sound when they're done measuring the temperature. You have to wait until that sound comes. It usually takes about a minute, but some thermometers can take even less time. It varies depending on the type of thermometer.
• Do not panic and remove the thermometer before the sound comes out. Doing so will prevent you from measuring the temperature accurately.

6. Read and record the value (if necessary):

• After the 'beep' sound, slowly remove the thermometer and read the value displayed on the screen.
• If you want, you can write down that value somewhere along with the time. It will be useful if you have to tell a doctor.
• Before using the bamboo skewer again, clean it thoroughly as before.

What should a fever look like when measured from the armpit? What is considered a fever?

Okay, now you've checked your temperature. Now how do you know if this is a normal temperature or a fever?

• The average armpit temperature of a healthy child is between 36.4°C (Celsius) and 37.4°C (Celsius). (That is, between 97.5°F and 99.3°F).
• If the temperature measured in the armpit is 37.5°C (Celsius) or higher, we consider it a fever. (Some books may also say 37.3°C or 37.6°C, but 37.5°C is the most commonly accepted value.)

Remember, an armpit temperature is usually about 0.5°C (0.5°F) lower than an oral or rectal temperature. So, when you tell a doctor about your fever, it's important to say, "I took it under my armpit." That way, the doctor can understand it better.

If you have a fever, what should you do next? Don't panic!

If you notice that your baby has a fever , don't panic right away. A fever is not a disease, but just a symptom of a disease. It could mean that the body is fighting an infection.

Check these things first:

• How high is the fever? (value)
• How is the baby behaving? Is he playing? Is he taking milk/food well? Is he grumpy? Is he crying?
• Are there any other symptoms? (Cough, runny nose , vomiting, stomach ache, body aches, difficulty breathing, etc.)

When to see a doctor immediately:

• Even if a baby under 3 months old has a slight fever (that is, 37.5°C (Celsius) or higher), they should see a doctor immediately, without delay. This is something you should definitely remember! A fever in a baby can be serious.
• If a baby between 3 and 6 months old has a fever of more than 38°C (100.4°F), or if the fever lasts for more than a day.
• If a child of any age has a fever much higher than 39°C (102.2°F).
• If the fever persists for more than two or three days.
• If you have symptoms like these along with your fever:
• If it feels like a fit (Seizure/Convulsion).
• If your neck is stiff and you can't bend your head.
• If you feel like you're having trouble breathing, or if you're breathing fast.
• If your body seems to be turning blue.
• If the vomiting doesn't stop, or the stomach doesn't stop moving (possible dehydration).
• If you have a strange rash on your body.
• If the child is in a lot of pain or distress.
• If the child is excessively sleepy or difficult to wake up.
• Regardless of the temperature, if you are very worried or suspicious about your child, it is best to see a doctor. Your heart knows best.

If it is a normal fever (if the doctor says it is okay), dress the baby in light clothes at home, give him plenty of fluids such as water, and get plenty of rest. If the doctor advises, you can give a medicine like Paracetamol in the prescribed dosage (the dosage varies depending on the child's weight, so it is important to ask the doctor).

Just remember a few more little things!

• If you're checking your child's temperature over several days, always check it in the same way (e.g., in the armpit). That way, you can compare how the temperature rises and falls.
• Always clean the bamboo skewer thoroughly after using it.
• Don't just touch your hand and decide "no fever" or "no fever." It's more accurate to check with a fever thermometer.
• If the digital thermometer you are using has a manual, read it carefully. It may also contain important instructions.

Take-Home Message

So, taking an axillary temperature is a quick and easy way to check for a fever, especially in young children. However, it's important to remember that it's not as accurate as other methods.

The most important thing is:

• Use only a digital thermometer .
• Clean the bamboo skewer thoroughly before and after using it.
• Keep the armpit dry, not caught in clothing, and place the bamboo skewer firmly against the skin.
• Hold the bamboo skewer patiently until it beeps .
• If the temperature measured under the armpit is 37.5°C (Celsius) or higher, consider it a fever.
• If a baby under 3 months old has even a slight fever, take him to the doctor immediately.
• If there are other dangerous symptoms along with the fever, or if you have any doubts about your child, don't waste time and see a doctor.

With these things in mind, you too can deal with your child's fever with understanding. Remember, you are not alone, and don't be afraid to seek medical advice at any time!

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