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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Fever Temperatures: Accuracy and Comparison

Fever Temperatures: Accuracy and Comparison

Overview

You can take a temperature using the mouth (oral), anus (rectal), armpit (axillary), ear (tympanic), or forehead (temporal). But the temperature readings vary depending on which one you use. And you need an accurate measurement to know if a fever is present.

Medical research hasn't found an exact correlation between oral, rectal, ear, armpit, and forehead temperature measurements. In general, here's how the temperatures compare:

  • The average normal oral temperature is 98.6 °F (37 °C).
  • A rectal temperature is 0.5° F (0.3° C) to 1° F (0.6° C) higher than an oral temperature. A rectal temperature is generally thought to be the most accurate for checking a baby's temperature.
  • An ear (tympanic) temperature is 0.5° F (0.3° C) to 1° F (0.6° C) higher than an oral temperature.
  • An armpit (axillary) temperature is usually 0.5° F (0.3° C) to 1° F (0.6° C) lower than an oral temperature.
  • A forehead (temporal) scanner is usually 0.5° F (0.3° C) to 1° F (0.6° C) lower than an oral temperature.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

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