When taking a 20 mos. temp. underarm, what's the norm. reading?

Question

It's hardly ever that I have to put my thermometer to the test but, today I did. Our boy is 20mo. old and has a nasty cold. We've been giving him cold/allergy meds as recommended but, now he seems to feel pretty warm. Not sure if it warrants Motrin to bring the fever down if he even has one!!!!

Help!! I know the pros. says rectally but, honestly I've never felt comfortable with that so, if you hold it underarm (armpit) for 1 min. and it reads 98.6 I know you're supposed to add a 1 or 2 pts. ontop of that reading. so, which one is it and how do I know if it's high enough to warrant meds to bring it down. Just doublechecking. Don't want to over medicate my boy!

He seems to go about his regular playing routine. The only time he's around others is when we're running errands other than that it's just us 3. No daycare, just him and I, my Hubby is our provider. Plz. Help, I need your assistance, from parents that have been there, done that! thanks have a nice evening, I appreciate it!

Answer 1

For underarm temps you add 1degree. I wouldn't give him anything to bringit down unless it is 101 under the arm. Especially if he is acting okay!

Answer 2

A reading of 101+ on your thermometer will indicate that your cutie has a fever.  Give medication according to the package, and do not deviate unless cutie is not improving.  Watch his behaviour, and take his temperature regularly (30 minute intervals) instead of over medicating.  If he has a fever, his behaviour will change radically and he will be lethargic and want to sleep, as well as being generally non communicative.   If he reads as a fever, take a towel dampened with tepid water, and hug him with it.  This is very effective in bringing down the temperature.