All babies get ill for time to time and an increase in temperature is nothing unusual. It’s the body’s natural reaction to help fight off micro-organisms. However, occasionally the body can overreact which leads to dangerous rises in core body temperature which can be very serious. Monitoring your baby’s temperature during illness is therefore very important.
Up until very recently the favored method of monitoring a baby’s temperature was via the rectal route. Although this gives a very accurate temperature reading the disadvantages of this approach are obvious. Firstly it requires planning and cooperation. Secondly it is unpleasant for your baby and not particularly kind if he or she is already feeling unwell. Thirdly, it takes time for the reading to stabilize.
One great method that is now available to all is the baby ear thermometer. Up until relatively recently these were purely for professional use only – i.e. for use by doctors or nurses in clinics. These were a fantastic development as they meant that the temperature of many babies could be established extremely rapidly and accurately whilst using non-intrusive methods. However, now the price has come down by so much that they are available and affordable to all households.
Baby ear thermometers work by quantifying levels of invisible radiation called infra-red. All warm objects give off infra-red radiation including our bodies and by measuring the amounts given off using electrical sensors it is possible to calculate the temperature of the source. And, unlike conventional thermometers the measurement and calculation is virtually instantaneous.
Use of the ear has other advantages over alternative routes. Firstly, in comparison to the mouth, the reading is not affected by a recent cold or warm drink. The ear drum also shares a blood supply with the part of the brain that is responsible for regulating body temperature so temperature in the ear reflects core body temperature very accurately. In comparison, the temperature of the rectum can lag behind core body temperature giving a less accurate reading. The ear canal is also very accessible and does require extensive cooperation to use.
Generally speaking baby ear thermometers are very easy to use. You normally just place them in the ear canal, push a button and wait for a second or so for the result to appear on the display. Some of the very best also provide you with feedback while you are using them. For example they will tell you when the thermometer is in the correct place to give a reading and also tell you when an accurate reading has been obtained. Some even warm up the ear piece to avoid discomfort and increase the accuracy of the reading.
Although predominantly intended for babies there is absolutely no reason why they can’t be used by other members of the family – even up to adults. They are also very easy to clean so there is no risk of transferring ear infections from one member of the family to the other.
To conclude baby ear thermometers are one of the best ways of measuring the temperature of your baby – quick and painless. Although they used to be expensive the prices have come down now somewhat so they are accessible to most homes. They are a great investment and, although particularly good for babies, they can be used for the whole family.