The significant difference between forehead temperature and ear temperature?
In recent days, I have been measuring my ear temperature at home, which is around 36.9 degrees Celsius.
Due to the current pandemic, I need to have my forehead temperature checked whenever I go to public places, but it consistently measures around 38 degrees Celsius, resulting in being denied entry.
I understand that forehead temperature can vary significantly, but even after resting and rechecking, it still remains close to 38 degrees.
I can also clearly feel that my forehead temperature is elevated, but I have not experienced any other uncomfortable symptoms.
Should I go to the hospital for an examination? If not, how can I improve this situation? Given the pandemic, having a high forehead temperature is quite inconvenient.
If I do need to go, which department should I consult? Thank you for your guidance, doctor.
ABC, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/25
Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr.
ABC:
1.
Methods for measuring body temperature include rectal, oral, axillary, tympanic, and temporal measurements, with rectal temperature being the closest to the body's true internal temperature.
The central body temperature is approximately 37 to 38 degrees Celsius, with the liver and brain averaging around 38 degrees, while the kidneys and other organs are slightly lower.
However, the temperature measured at the body's surface will be lower.
For common temperature measurement methods, the average rectal temperature is 37.9 degrees Celsius; a rectal temperature exceeding 38 degrees is considered a fever.
The average tympanic temperature is 37.5 degrees; a temperature above 38 degrees is also classified as a fever.
The normal oral temperature ranges from 36 to 37.4 degrees; exceeding 37.5 degrees indicates a fever.
The normal axillary temperature ranges from 36 to 37 degrees; a temperature above 37.4 degrees is considered a low-grade fever.
Generally speaking, the average oral temperature is about 0.5 degrees Celsius lower than rectal temperature, and the average axillary temperature is about 0.8 degrees Celsius lower than rectal temperature.
Using a temporal thermometer or infrared measurement on the skin surface is very convenient and quick, but it often underestimates the true body temperature and is usually used for reference.
2.
Factors such as recent exercise, consuming hot soup or tea, or wearing a hat can cause a slight increase in body temperature.
Additionally, body temperature tends to be slightly higher in the afternoon.
If there is no history of international travel and no symptoms of illness, and the initial measurement shows a slight fever, it is advisable to rest for half an hour to an hour before measuring again to confirm if there is indeed a fever.
3.
If your temporal temperature is close to 38 degrees Celsius, it is indeed necessary to consider the possibility of a fever.
Please rest before measuring your temperature, avoid wearing hats or helmets, and hydrate to help dissipate heat, which should assist in lowering your temperature.
If the temperature remains elevated, please consult your family physician or visit an infectious disease department at a regional hospital for further evaluation to rule out any serious issues.
Reply Date: 2020/04/25
More Info
When it comes to measuring body temperature, discrepancies between different measurement sites, such as the ear and forehead, can often lead to confusion and concern, especially in the context of the ongoing pandemic. Your situation, where you consistently measure around 36.9 degrees Celsius in the ear but find your forehead temperature reading around 38 degrees Celsius, raises some important points to consider.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that different methods of measuring temperature can yield varying results. The ear (tympanic) temperature is often considered more accurate than forehead (temporal) temperature readings, but both can be influenced by external factors. For instance, forehead temperature can be affected by environmental conditions, recent physical activity, or even the method of measurement. If you have been in a warm environment or have just engaged in physical activity, this could elevate your forehead temperature reading.
In your case, since you are experiencing a consistent discrepancy, it would be prudent to ensure that you are using the thermometer correctly. For ear thermometers, make sure the probe is clean and that you are positioning it correctly in the ear canal. For forehead thermometers, ensure that the sensor is clean and that you are following the manufacturer's instructions for use.
Regarding your concern about the elevated forehead temperature, it is important to note that a reading of 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) is considered a fever. However, if you are not experiencing any other symptoms such as chills, sweating, headache, or malaise, it may not indicate a serious underlying condition. The absence of other symptoms can suggest that this might be a temporary elevation due to external factors rather than an infection or illness.
If you continue to experience this discrepancy and are concerned about your health, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. You could start with a visit to your primary care physician, who can evaluate your symptoms and may recommend further tests or referrals to specialists if necessary. If you have a history of anxiety or health concerns, discussing these with your doctor can also help alleviate some of your worries.
In the meantime, to improve your situation regarding forehead temperature readings, consider the following tips:
1. Rest and Hydrate: Ensure you are well-rested and hydrated, as dehydration can sometimes lead to elevated body temperatures.
2. Avoid Heat Exposure: Stay in a cool environment before taking your forehead temperature, as heat can artificially raise readings.
3. Consistent Measurement: Try to measure your temperature at the same time each day and under similar conditions for more reliable results.
4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of any symptoms you may experience alongside your temperature readings. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns or triggers.
5. Seek Professional Advice: If the elevated forehead temperature persists or if you develop any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.
In conclusion, while discrepancies between ear and forehead temperatures can be concerning, they are not uncommon and can often be explained by various factors. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.
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