Which thermometer is better, digital or analog?

Question

Hi doctor,

I feel like my forehead is hot, and I have a fever. I have both a digital and an analog thermometer. The underarm temperature reading on the analog thermometer is 98.3°F, and the oral temperature reading is 99°F. The underarm temperature, as measured by the digital thermometer, is 98.4°F, and the temperature in the mouth is 99.1°F. I do not like using the AC or the fan in the room.

Please answer the following questions. Do I have a fever, or is it my anxiousness raising my temperature? Should I take Crocin 650 for this? Which thermometer is accurate for fever reading, analog or digital? Where should I place the thermometer for precise results: under the arm or in the mouth? For the analog thermometer, how long should the thermometer be held for an accurate reading?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Firstly, this is not a fever. Both thermometers are accurate, but the analog is better. The mouth is better for checking the temperature, and 1 to 2 minutes is sufficient for this purpose.

Usually, oral temperature is more than axillary temperature by 0.5 to 1°F, so whatever you are seeing is a normal variation. In medical practice, we consider fever to be present when the oral temperature in the evening is above 99.9°F. Additionally, a temperature of more than 99°F in the morning can be viewed as a fever. But some variation does occur in these temperatures.

Overall, a temperature of 100°F or higher is typically considered a fever. The fever would be important if it were associated with other symptoms, such as cough, weight loss, appetite loss, and any other symptoms. I think whatever you are having is probably feverishness and anxiety.

Still, you can undergo blood tests such as total leukocyte count, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and CRP (C-reactive protein). These are the inflammatory markers and will be elevated in a fever. So, if these are normal, then that further gives assurance.

I hope this helps you, and please get back to me if you have any doubts.

For further queries, consult an internal medicine physician online.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen your reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Your reports are normal, so there's no need to get CRP done. It is just a feeling and not a fever. Just monitor your temperature. If you have any symptoms or your doubt persists, then you can get yourself examined in detail by a local physician.

For further queries consult an internal medicine physician online.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

No, it is not at all an issue. This much variation is acceptable. It is normal. Do not worry.

For more information, consult an internal medicine physician online.