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However, the best health thermometer for your needs will depend on many factors.
There are three to choose from: oral, ear, and forehead thermometers.
Oral thermometersThese are the classic thermometers you place under your tongue, says Dr. Genovese.
They use electronic sensors to give you a reading, usually within about 30 seconds to a minute.
He adds that they are perfect for adults and older kids who can keep it under their tongue.
However, they are not great for everyone.
It has a flexible comfort tip, a backlit display for easy reading, and fever indication emoticons.
These clever devices use infrared technology to measure the temperature inside the ear canal, explains Dr. Genovese.
However, they do have a couple of disadvantages.
Its Age Precision feature also provides a handy age-appropriate fever guidance.
Plus, it stores the last nine readings.
They are non-invasive, quick, and easy to use, especially for infants and toddlers.
it’s possible for you to even use them while kids are sleeping!
They sound like the perfect thermometer, but you have to pay more for the ease of use.
For infants and young childrenDr.
Genovese recommends forehead or ear thermometers for infants and young children.
They are fantastic because they are quick and non-invasive.
For adultsThe best option for adults is an oral thermometer, as they are precise.
This will save you from having two different thermometers in your medical cabinet.
Genovese highly recommends forehead or ear thermometers for older adults.
While these might be more expensive, they can serve the whole family, making them worth the investment.
How much should you spend on a thermometer?
Sometimes, a reliable essential oral thermometer can do the job just as well as a fancy model.
Do extra features matter?
Light-up displayA light-up display is the one feature Id always opt for when buying a thermometer.
Dr. Genovese agrees, saying it allows you to check temperatures without waking everyone up with bright lights.
I always found this invaluable when my children were young and unable to tell me exactly how they felt.
I can also see how having a fever alert would be helpful with older adults.
My mom had dementia, which limited her ability to communicate clearly.
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