Body Temperature

What Affects the Test

• Not keeping your mouth closed around the thermometer when taking an oral temperature.
• Not leaving a thermometer in place long enough before reading it.
• Not putting the proper thermometer in the right place.
• Not following the instructions for proper use that come with the thermometer.
• A weak or dead thermometer battery.
• Taking an oral temperature within 20 minutes after smoking or drinking a hot or cold liquid.
• Taking a temperature by any method within an hour of exercising vigorously or taking a hot bath.

What To Think About

• Thermometers with a digital display usually need a battery. If your thermometer uses a battery, make sure it is working before taking a temperature.
• Body temperature is only one way of monitoring your health. Besides temperature, other basic measurements to monitor your health include your pulse, breathing rate (respiration), and blood pressure. These basic measurements are called your vital signs.
• A fever can make you feel uncomfortable. To treat the discomfort of a fever, wear light clothing and use light blankets or other bedding. Drink cool liquids. A bath or shower with lukewarm (not cool) water can lower body temperature. Cool or cold water can cause shivering and can cause the blood vessels near the skin to contract, which will raise the body temperature further.
• Fever-reducing medicines can lower body temperature and help you feel more comfortable. When a fever causes discomfort, use over-the-counter acetaminophen or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID), such as ibuprofen. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Aspirin also reduces fever but should not be given to anyone younger than age 20 because of the risk of Reye syndrome. Talk to your doctor before you give fever medicine to a baby who is 3 months of age or younger. This is to make sure a young baby's fever is not a sign of a serious illness.
  • Fever or Chills, Age 11 and Younger
  • Fever or Chills, Age 12 and Older
• Glass thermometers containing mercury are no longer recommended. If you have a glass thermometer, contact your local health department for instructions on how to dispose of it safely. If you break a glass thermometer, call your local poison control center immediately.