Newborn body temperature
Release time : 03/14/2025 09:30:02
The recent temperature fluctuations have been significant, with many newborns experiencing fever. Some mothers hurriedly took their babies to the hospital, only to find that the doctor said the temperature was normal. What's going on here? Why do some newborns have a fever while others don't? This is quite concerning for new parents. It's important to understand that newborns' body temperatures are very different from those of adults, and measurements taken at different times throughout the day and in various parts of the body can vary significantly. Therefore, when baby's temperature slightly increases, it's not cause for excessive worry. Recording the baby's temperature curve is key! Let's delve into what counts as normal newborn body temperature and how to measure it correctly. Parents, take note! What constitutes a normal newborn body temperature? The normal range of newborn body temperature varies depending on the measurement site, as slight differences can occur due to the unique anatomy of newborns. Common measurement sites include the oral cavity, groin, and anus.
The normal temperature range for newborns in the oral cavity is 36.2°C to 37.3°C.
The temperature in the axillary area ranges between 35.9°C and 37.2°C.
The temperature at the anus ranges between 36.5°C and 37.5°C.
If the measurement exceeds the normal range by 0.5°C, it can be determined that the baby has a slight fever. If the temperature does not exceed 38°C, it is considered a low-grade fever; if it exceeds 39°C, it is considered a high fever.
When measuring a baby's temperature, we often find that their body temperature fluctuates at different times. Sometimes it is high and sometimes low, which makes us worry constantly, fearing the worst for our little one.
At this time, mothers should not worry too much; it's normal. When a baby is at rest, their body temperature is lower, such as during sleep at night.
When a baby is active, their body temperature tends to be higher, such as during afternoon and daytime activities.
However, it's important to note that what we refer to as "normal" means that the baby's body temperature remains relatively stable. Moms can check the record graph of the baby's body temperature to see if the fluctuations are within a normal range.
When measuring a newborn's temperature, we typically use our hands to feel the baby's body to detect any changes in their temperature. If we notice that the baby has mild fever, we will consider using a thermometer to measure their temperature. At this point, it is important to pay attention to the method of measuring the temperature, as incorrect measurement methods definitely lead to errors.
So, how can you measure a baby's temperature? 1. Head-temperature band
For babies who don't cooperate, ordinary thermometers simply can't get a good reading. However, the head temperature patch is all you need to place on your baby's head and it works very conveniently. However, if the baby doesn't like someone sticking their head in their mouth, this method also becomes useless.
2. Underarm Measurement Method.
This is the same as how we usually take a temperature. First, loosen the baby's clothes, then place the mercury tip of the thermometer in the middle of the baby's armpit. Make sure the baby's arm doesn't move around, and help the baby keep the thermometer securely in place.
"Take the reading after 5 minutes, and during this time, make sure to keep the baby warm to avoid catching a chill."
Additionally, if your baby has sweat under their armpits, make sure to dry it off before taking the measurement.
3. Neck Temperature Measurement Method: Place the mercury end of the thermometer horizontally on the skin folds around the neck, adjust the headpiece and secure it with a clip to avoid any movement during measurement. It is advisable to measure for at least 5 minutes, preferably 10 minutes to ensure accuracy.
Neck temperature measurement is difficult to secure and greatly affected by ambient temperature variations, making it less accurate than the axillary method.
4. **Fecal Temperature Measurement Technique**: First, disinfect the mercury tip of the thermometer using an alcohol swab, then apply a small amount of vegetable oil (boiled and cooled) as a lubricant. Gently insert the thermometer into the infant's anus to a depth of approximately 3 centimeters and leave it in place for 3 minutes to measure the temperature. The normal temperature range is around 37.5°C. In winter, if the infant's body temperature is low, the fecal temperature may be measured at around 36°C.
5. The temperature of the ear can be measured in 1 second by an infrared probe, which is accurate enough for newborns to be applied widely.
Factors affecting neonatal body temperature, although the body temperature of newborns may vary according to their activity levels, are also influenced by external factors.
When the external environment temperature is high (especially in summer),
If the baby stays in the mother's embrace too long, its temperature will rise.
However, this fever will not last too long. It is only necessary for parents to place their baby in a cool place and fan them with a fan.
2. When babies are wearing many clothes, especially in winter.
During seasons with a variety of changes, mothers often keep their babies warm by wearing many clothes to avoid catching cold. At this time, the baby's body temperature may also increase, and at this moment, mothers need to appropriately reduce the amount of clothing for the baby.
Some newborns may experience what is known as "dehydration fever" or "transient fever" within 3-5 days after birth, with body temperature reaching 39°C to 40°C. This condition often lasts several hours or even one to two days. The newborn may also exhibit symptoms such as facial flushing, dry skin, and restlessness, which can be caused by insufficient fluid intake, high room temperature, or overly thick clothing.
After feeding with more breast milk or a little warm water, the body temperature can drop quickly.
What to do if a newborn has low body temperature? Low body temperature in newborns refers to the core (rectal) temperature being below 35°C, characterized by symptoms such as low body temperature, coldness on the surface, and low responsiveness.
When the baby is in a state of low body temperature for a long time, it can affect the organs and tissues of the baby, thereby causing damage to them. This may lead to more serious harm and even threaten the life of the baby.
When a baby's temperature drops, what should parents do? Don't be idle. Try the following methods to help the baby's temperature return to normal! 1. Keep the room temperature in the range of 18-22°C, ensuring the baby is in a relatively warm environment.
2. Pay attention to selecting clothing and bedding made of soft and comfortable cotton fabric, which can provide excellent insulation for babies.
3. If you frequently touch your baby's limbs and notice that their hands and feet are cold, it means the warmth measures are not adequate. You need to increase the clothing or cuddle him/her for warmth.
If the above measures fail to raise the baby's body temperature, it is best to promptly take the baby to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment! What should you do if a newborn's body temperature rises too high? When babies are kept in hot environments or overly clothed for an extended period, they may experience a high body temperature (above 37.4°C). Placing the baby in a cooler area or reducing clothing can help lower their body temperature. However, sometimes fevers in babies may be caused by illnesses, which requires special attention from parents! If a baby's body temperature exceeds 37.4°C, mothers should consider whether the cause is excessive activity, high external temperatures, or excessive clothing. If none of these factors apply, then it may be necessary to consider whether the fever is due to an underlying illness.
When a baby is feverish, if the fever is caused by external factors, mothers can take appropriate measures to cool down the baby. However, if the fever is due to a disease, it is important to consider treatment according to the situation.
If a baby's body temperature is below 38°C, physical cooling methods can be used, such as wrapping the body in blankets or using a warming box to maintain the temperature.
It is not recommended to give newborn babies fever reducers, as common fever reducers often have some toxic side effects on newborns.
If the baby is dehydrated, administer 5% or 10% glucose water, and if necessary, infuse intravenously.
Infected infants may be treated with appropriate antibiotics.
If the baby's body temperature exceeds 39°C, they should be treated at a hospital.
The medical information provided in this text is for reference only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.
If there is any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately. The diagnosis and treatment should be based on a face-to-face consultation with a medical professional.