My son is 4 weeks old. Is it normal for some parts of his body to go over 100 F?

Question

Hi,

My 4-week-old son is always running hot. We have an infrared thermometer that we use. Is it normal for parts of the body (neck, chest, belly, etc.) to go over 100F? We have measured on his forehead, and it is 98F, as well as checking rectally it is 98F too. My wife is concerned that he may be overheating and that it could cause brain damage. Please let me know if this is fine and normal.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. The body parts that are covered continuously may have a little higher temperature record than the exposed body part. As the rectal temperature is normal, it is absolutely fine, not to worry. Just take care not to put too many clothes or tight clothes. Use loose clothes and preferably plain cotton ones. It is nothing to do with brain damage. The infrared thermometer may give varied results, and for the same reason, I prefer an ear thermometer and take the temperature in both ears whenever you suspect anything. Try to avoid rectal temperature measurement regularly. Occasionally it is fine.

Take care.