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 digital and analog thermometer. The underarm temperature in the analog thermometer shows 98.3 F, and in the mouth, it shows 99 F. The underarm temperature in the digital thermometer shows 98.4 F, and in the mouth, it is 99.1 F. I do not like using AC or 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 accurate results, underarm or the mouth? For the analog thermometer, how long is the standard time to hold the thermometer for an accurate reading?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

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

Normally, 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 considered fever when the oral temperature in the evening is above 99.9 F. Also, in the morning, more than 99 F can be considered as a fever. But some variation does occur in these temperatures.

So overall, 100 F or more is usually considered as a fever. The fever would have importance if it associated with other symptoms like a cough, weight loss, appetite loss, and any other symptoms. I think whatever you are having is probably feverishness and anxiety.

Still, you can get some blood test like total leucocyte count, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), and CRP (C-reactive protein). These are the inflammatory marker and will be elevated in a fever. So, if these are normal, then that further gives assurance.

Hope this helps you and get back if you have any doubts.

For further queries consult an internal medicine physician online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/internal-medicine-physician

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com,

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

Your reports are normal, so 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 detailed by a local physician.

All the best.

For further queries consult an internal medicine physician online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/internal-medicine-physician

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 --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/internal-medicine-physician

Which thermometer is better, digital or analog?

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Company

Customer Care

Get iCliniq