Early detection of fever and high temperatures in the human body can help prevent a variety of diseases. In fact, 110,000 people die each year from typhoid, while over 9 million people are affected and sickened by this single fever type. To prevent such diseases, regular temperature measurement is important, and that’s where a digital thermometer comes into play. These thermometers are designed with precise reading capabilities to help you keep tracking the temperature on a regular basis. Digital thermometers are safer to use than traditional mercury thermometers, yet most people don’t know how to use a digital thermometer at home. This blog answers this exact question about the use of digital thermometers.
Digital Thermometers:
A digital thermometer is a temperature measurement device used to measure body temperatures in humans. Although there are a variety of thermometers available, not just for humans but also for animals, fruits and any object to measure its temperature, thermometers are commonly referenced for humans.
These devices use electrical principles to measure. This involves sensors such as thermistor resistance and nodes to keep track of variations. On the tip of the digital thermometer, a special metal that is very sensitive to temperature, is connected to a digital display. These thermometers are not very extensive and can be used anywhere.
How to Use a Digital Thermometer at Home to Measure Fever
To use digital thermometers to measure temperature and detect fever, follow these steps –
- Clean the tip of thermometer with water and then rinse it.
- Let the thermomerte rest for 2-3 minutes and then turn it on.
- Put the tip of thermometer under your tongue (mouth-method) or put the thermometer tip in your side arm (under-arm method), or gently place the thermometer in ear (ear-method).
- Wait until the device beeps or flashes.
- Write down the temperature on the display.
To consider whether you have a fever or not, follow these guidelines:
Mostly, the temperature is displayed in Fahrenheit units on a digital thermometer. To convert it into celsius, use this formula:
Celsius = [(°F-32)×5]/9, where °F represents the temperature value in Fahrenheit.
If the temperature is 38°C (100.4°F) or more, then it is considered a high temperature or fever.
How to Use a Digital Thermometer for Kids to Measure Fever
Under the age of 5, kids’ temperatures are measured differently, requiring more attention and care. How did you decide whether your baby may have fever or not? Here are some signs:
- Their chests and backs feel hotter than usual.
- Cheeks become reddish.
- Sweating or feeling clammy.
If you notice any of these signs, follow these instructions to measure fever:
- Clean the tip of the thermometer with water and let it rest for some time.
- Hold your baby gently on your knees. Put the tip of the thermometer in one of their armpits.
- Hold their hands to close the armpit to ensure the device is properly placed. Note that measuring the temperature of newborns or kids from the side armpit is the most preferred approach.
- Wait until the thermometer beeps or flashes to take a reading of the temperature. Digital thermometers are fast and accurate, and usually take less than 15 seconds to measure.
What is the Thermometer Price in India?
Digital thermometers’ price has been reduced as low as traditional thermometers. In India, a decent digital thermometer such as the Romsons Probe Digital Thermometer can cost around ₹150 per box. However, these thermometers come in different types, so the cost may vary depending on the type, brand, and other charges. The cost can go up to ₹1500 or more for some digital thermometers, depending on the features like touch control, auto turn off and usability. Contactless thermometers can also cost roughly ₹500 for one device, which became more popular after covid19 hit the world.
Final Thoughts:
While most of you think measuring temperature on a regular basis is overstated, a digital thermometer can help you protect against severe illnesses such as hyperthermia, osteomyelitis, cellulitis, meningitis, pneumonia, dengue fever, and typhoid fever. These thermometers are mercury-free, safer than conventional temperature measurement devices and work on batteries. Digital thermometers take less time to show results, display more accuracy and are easy to use for both adults and kids. While adults have many approaches to measuring fever, the armpit approach to measuring temperature is most suitable for kids under 5 years of age.
