What do the results tell you?

After you convert a body temperature from one method to another, you can more easily compare it to normal body temperature levels. You can find out if someone's temperature is too low (hypothermia) or too high (fever).

Children tend to have higher fevers than adults. Often you must look at your or your child's other symptoms to find out how serious the illness is.

What's next?

When you tell your doctor about a temperature measurement, be sure to say what method you used to take it.

For more information about how to take a temperature and how to treat fever, see:

• Body Temperature.
• Fever or Chills, Age 12 and Older.
• Fever or Chills, Age 11 and Younger.