One of the primary indicators of good health is our body temperature. Maintaining the optimal temperature is crucial for the proper functioning of our immune system and other vital organs. Temperature readings can differ based on the part of the body they are measured at, and core temperature is the most precise indicator of our internal temperature. Therefore, measuring core temperature accurately is crucial. In this article, we will discuss the best ways to measure the core temperature.
Core temperature is defined as the temperature of the organs and deep tissues within your body. It is usually measured by placing a thermometer in the rectum, ear, mouth, or underarm. However, these methods are not always accurate indicators of the core temperature. The ear temperature can be affected by skin conditions, earwax, or ear infections. Similarly, the mouth temperature can be influenced by heat or cold drinks, smoking, or even chewing gum. The underarm temperature is undoubtedly the most convenient, but it may not provide accurate readings due to the varying thickness and density of the armpit fat.
Experts recommend rectal thermometers as being the most accurate way to measure core temperature. It is also the most invasive and intrusive method. Rectal thermometers need to be placed in the rectum and come with different types of tips, such as flexible or rigid. To use a rectal thermometer, first, clean it with soap and water, followed by alcohol. Then, lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly or another lubricant. You should lie on your side or place your child on his/her stomach during the measurement. Insert the thermometer two inches into the rectum until it stops. Keep it in place for at least a minute to take the temperature reading.
A newer method of measuring core temperature is to use ingestible thermometers, which are like small pills that can be swallowed. These miniature sensors are capable of collecting and transmitting temperature readings to an outside device, such as a phone or monitor. Once ingested, they tend to remain in the gut for up to six hours, collecting readings approximately every five minutes. These sensors are powered by a battery and have been shown to be very effective, especially for patients with cervix cancer, who require consistent monitoring of their daily core body temperature. However, ingestible sensors are expensive, and they are not widely used outside of hospital settings.
Another option for measuring core temperature is by using a temporal artery thermometer that can detect the temperature in the temporal artery located about one inch from the forehead. This type of thermometer works by using infrared technology to measure the temperature of the blood flowing through the artery. To use this thermometer, place the unit on the forehead above the temple. Then, scan the area from the temple to the center of the forehead, maintaining contact with the skin. This scanning process takes only a second and takes the reading from the contralateral side. The electronic thermometer then dispenses the temperature on a digital display. Although this method is not as accurate as the rectal method, it is less invasive and suitable for adults or children.
Lastly, skin patch thermometers are another way to get temperature readings. These adhesive patches use a chemical indicator to read your temperature, which changes color with increasing temperature. The patches usually stay on your body for up to two days and come with an app that sends temperature readings to your device. This option is useful for people who keep forgetting to take their temperature readings or have a continuous fever, and the patches detect the underlying health condition.
In conclusion, all methods of measuring temperature have their pros and cons. However, for the most accurate and efficient method, a rectal thermometer is the way to go. It is the most invasive but is a definite, risk-free way of determining core body temperature. For those looking for less intrusive methods, temporal artery and ingestible sensors are also effective options. While temporal artery thermometers are more appropriate for adults and children, ingestible sensors are mainly used by healthcare providers. Skin patches offer an alternative method that is less invasive, but they are not as reliable as the other methods discussed. Whatever method you choose, it is crucial to keep your device clean and disinfected, so that it is ready for when you need it. Remember: consistent monitoring of your core body temperature is essential in this day and age, where pandemics such as COVID-19 are a prevalent threat to our overall health and wellness.