The Best Type of Thermometer to Take a Temperature
When you are feeling bad one of the best indicators that you may be sick is whether or not you are running a fever. Fortunately there are many options for taking your temperature at home that can help you decide if you need to rush to the hospital.
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Digital Thermometers
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Most experts use and recommend a digital thermometer, according to health website drpsock.com. Digital thermometers are viewed as being highly accurate and easy to read.
Using a Digital Thermometer
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A digital thermometer can be inserted into the mouth, ear, armpit or rectum and takes an instant reading of the patient's temperature.
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Bulb Thermometers
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Before digital thermometers were commercially available, most people relied on mercury filled bulb thermometers. Due to the risk that the bulb can break and expose a patient to poisonous liquid mercury, their use has declined.
Using a Bulb Thermometer
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The bulb thermometer can be placed into the mouth, rectum or armpit and must remain in place for approximately 2 minutes before it will garner an accurate reading.
Caution
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Dr. George Walker of Spacecoastmedicine.com recommends that any child under 3 or any adult over 65 seek medical treatment for any fever over 100.5 F or higher. Other patients should seek treatment for fevers reaching 103 F.
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