When Your Infant or Child Has a Fever

A normal temperature is about 98.6°F when taken orally (by mouth). Temperatures taken rectally (by rectum) usually run 1° higher than those taken orally. So a normal temperature is about 99.6°F when taken rectally. Many doctors define a fever as an oral temperature above 99.4°F or a rectal temperature above 100.4°F.

The most accurate way to take your child's temperature is orally or rectally with a digital thermometer. In a child younger than about 4 years, take the temperature rectally. In an older child, take it orally.

• Mercury thermometers should not be used. Mercury is an environmental toxin, and you don't want to risk exposing your family to it. If you have a mercury thermometer at home, you should remove it and use a digital thermometer.
• Don't bundle your baby or child up too tightly before taking his or her temperature.
• Never leave your child alone while taking his or her temperature.
• Be sure you use the right thermometer. Read the package instructions to see if you have an oral or rectal thermometer.
• If you're taking your child's temperature rectally, coat the tip of the thermometer with petroleum jelly (brand name: Vaseline) and insert it half an inch into the rectum. Hold the thermometer still and do not let go. When the thermometer beeps, remove it and check the digital reading.
• If you're taking your child's temperature orally, place the end of the thermometer under the tongue and leave it there until the thermometer beeps. Remove the thermometer and check the digital reading.
• After you're done using the thermometer, wash it in cool, soapy water

Breast Cancer: Steps to Finding Breast Lumps Early

How can I find breast cancer early?

The best way to find breast lumps is to do 3 things:

• Have regular mammograms (usually every 1-2 years starting around age 40).
• Have your doctor check your breasts.
• Check your breasts yourself every month.

Doing all of these things gives you the best chance to find cancer as early as you can. Finding breast cancer early makes treatment much easier and more effective.

Return to top

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, up to 2 years before the lump is even large enough to feel. A mammogram is a special kind of X-ray of your breasts. The amount of radiation used in the X-ray is very small and not harmful.

Mammograms detect cancer because cancer is more dense (thicker) than the normal part of the breast. A radiologist will look at the X-rays for signs of cancer or other breast problems.