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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is It Advisable To Take Rectal Temperature?

Hello.My question is in relation to rectal temperature taking. I compete at a very high level of sport. I work out and train regurally. I do not smoke, drink alcohal or stay up late at night.I stick to strict healthy eating diet also. As a result of this I am 100% healthy. Whenever am under the weather I take my own temperature rectally to insure the most accurate reading.I am a complete health fanatic so this procedure doesn't bother me in the slightest. The few times I visit my doctor when an illness usually cold or flu is taking hold of me my temperature is taken orally. I know rectal is more accurate and I feel more at ease knowing im been as accurate as possible. In my field of sport there is liltte time to be out ill.My question is , is this something that I could ask my doctor about, taking a rectal temperature? Or would I be looked at as if I had two heads?



Thu, 12 Nov 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
Welcome to the HCM,

I understand your concern, regarding body temperature measurements, there are many ways such as reactal, oral, axillary or tympanic membrane etc. The rectal measurements will be usually 0.5°F (0.3°C) to 1°F (0.6°C) higher than an oral temperature. Rectal temperatures are generally thought to be the most accurate for checking a young child's temperature not for the adults. A rectal temperature is generally considered to be the most accurate, and the standard for monitoring the core body temperature, but it is generally not recommended for use in patients, due to the risk of rectal perforation and tears with this method and also in relation with hygiene and sanitation rectal is not preferred in clinics for adults. I hope this answers your doubts. Have a nice day and take care.
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Is It Advisable To Take Rectal Temperature?

Hi, Welcome to the HCM, I understand your concern, regarding body temperature measurements, there are many ways such as reactal, oral, axillary or tympanic membrane etc. The rectal measurements will be usually 0.5°F (0.3°C) to 1°F (0.6°C) higher than an oral temperature. Rectal temperatures are generally thought to be the most accurate for checking a young child s temperature not for the adults. A rectal temperature is generally considered to be the most accurate, and the standard for monitoring the core body temperature, but it is generally not recommended for use in patients, due to the risk of rectal perforation and tears with this method and also in relation with hygiene and sanitation rectal is not preferred in clinics for adults. I hope this answers your doubts. Have a nice day and take care.