South Africa
A 27-year-old female asked:
My 2 year old started with a fever yesterday afternoon. no other symptoms aside from fever, being cold and sensitive body/skin.. the ear thermometer says 36.5, under the arm thermometer says 38.5... not sure if the ear one is broken ?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Holly Maesanswered
Pediatrics 38 years experience
While that temperature is considered a very low grade fever, it is not by any means dangerous. Your body makes a temperature to fight off germs, both bacteria and virus, that cause infections. The fever actually helps your immune system work better. Keep your child well hydrated, as a temperature causes you to need more fluids. See doc in next few days if fever doesn't go away or other symptom
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Reviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Deborah Ungerleider commented
Pediatrics 38 years experience
Agree with Dr. Maes. Also, if you're unsure whether a temperature reading is accurate, a rectal temperature is most accurate; consider rechecking with that. Ear thermometers are often not accurate.
Mar 4, 2021
Last updated Mar 5, 2021
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