Ear Temperature and Symptoms in Children: When to Worry

The ear temperature has remained between 37.3 and 37.5 degrees Celsius over the past two days?

The ear temperature has been maintained between 37.3-37.5 degrees Celsius for the past two days, and there is a slight feeling of lethargy.
On Friday, there was an incident of choking on food, which caused some nasal regurgitation, and for a moment, I was unable to speak (but I returned to normal afterward).
Is this normal?

Henry, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/22

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

The standard for fever measured by ear temperature is greater than 37.8°C.
In healthy individuals, coughing typically triggers a protective reflex response, which should not lead to aspiration issues.
However, whether your condition is normal or indicative of an illness cannot be determined without a personal examination.
If you are still concerned or experiencing discomfort, it is advisable to visit a clinic for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2020/03/22

More Info

When it comes to monitoring a child's health, particularly their body temperature, it's essential to understand what is considered normal and when to seek medical attention. In your case, an ear temperature consistently between 37.3°C and 37.5°C (99.1°F to 99.5°F) is generally considered normal. The standard threshold for fever in children is typically defined as a temperature above 38°C (100.4°F). Therefore, your child's ear temperature does not indicate a fever.

However, you mentioned that your child has been feeling a bit lethargic and experienced a choking incident that caused temporary difficulty in speaking. While choking can be alarming, it is common for children to have protective reflexes that help prevent aspiration into the lungs. If your child recovered quickly and is now able to speak normally, this is a positive sign. Nonetheless, it is crucial to monitor for any persistent symptoms or changes in behavior.

In terms of lethargy, it can be a sign of various underlying issues, including mild viral infections or even fatigue from a recent illness. If your child is otherwise eating, drinking, and playing normally, it may not be a cause for immediate concern. However, if the lethargy persists or worsens, or if you notice other concerning symptoms such as high fever, difficulty breathing, or unusual irritability, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

Additionally, if your child experiences recurrent choking episodes or shows signs of respiratory distress, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly. Choking can lead to complications such as aspiration pneumonia, especially if food particles enter the airway.

In summary, while the ear temperature readings you provided are within the normal range, the accompanying symptoms of lethargy and the choking incident warrant careful observation. If you have any doubts or if your child's condition changes, do not hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician for further evaluation. Early intervention can be crucial in ensuring your child's health and well-being.

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