How many degrees do you add when you take a temperature under the arm?
Daniel Johnson
Published Mar 21, 2026
How many degrees do you add when you take a temperature under the arm?
An armpit temperature is generally 1 degree lower than an oral temperature. It can be nearly 2 degrees lower than a rectal temperature, which is the most accurate.
Are armpit thermometers accurate?
Underarm (axillary) and forehead temperatures are considered to be the least accurate because they’re taken outside of the body rather than inside. These temperatures can be as much as a full degree lower than oral body temperature.
What should your temperature be under your armpit?
A normal axillary temperature is between 96.6° (35.9° C) and 98° F (36.7° C). The normal axillary temperature is usually a degree lower than the oral (by mouth) temperature. The axillary temperature may be as much as two degrees lower than the rectal temperature.
Is 99.4 under the arm a fever?
The following temperatures are considered “feverish” when taken from different areas of the body: Orally (mouth) over 99.5 F. Rectally (bottom) over 100.4 F. Axillary (underarm) 99.0 F.
Which is more accurate forehead or armpit temperature?
Forehead temps are the next most accurate. Oral and ear temps are also accurate if done properly. Temps done in the armpit are the least accurate. Armpit temps are useful for screening at any age.
What is the most accurate thermometer for home use?
The best thermometers you can buy
- iProven DMT-489. Best thermometer overall.
- Innovo Forehead and Ear. Another top dual-mode thermometer.
- Vicks ComfortFlex. Best thermometer for infants.
- Chooseen Digital Forehead and Ear Thermometer.
- Kinsa Smart Ear Thermometer.
- Kinsa QuickCare.
- Elepho eTherm.
- Braun ThermoScan 7.
Is 36.9 a normal temperature?
Your body’s normal temperature is between 36 and 36.8 degrees Celsius. A high temperature or fever, for most people, is when your body temperature is 38 degrees Celsius or higher. This can be a sign that you are unwell. It usually means you have an infection such as a cold.
What kind of thermometer is most accurate?
Digital thermometers
Digital thermometers are the most accurate way to take body temperature. There are many types, including oral, rectal, and forehead, plus many that are multifunctional. Once you decide on the type of thermometer you want, you can think about design, extra features, and price.
Is 36.9 a low grade fever?
A low-grade fever is often classified as an oral temperature that is above 98.6° F (37° C) but lower than 100.4° F (38° C) for a period of 24 hours. 1 A fever of 103° F (39° C) or higher is more concerning in adults. Fevers, though uncomfortable, play a key role in helping your body fight off many infections.
Is 36.9 a normal temperature for adults?