Is it accurate to take body temperature under the blankets in winter?

Mar 28, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Taking body temperature under the blankets during winter is generally not accurate. In winter, due to cold weather and low indoor temperatures, heat within the blankets does not dissipate easily, resulting in a higher temperature under the covers. If body temperature is measured under the blankets in winter, the reading may show an elevated temperature. However, if there are other physical discomforts, this measurement method is usually unreliable, prone to errors, and may affect the doctor's diagnosis and delay treatment.

Body temperature measured under the blanket during winter is generally inaccurate. It is recommended to measure body temperature correctly to avoid affecting medical diagnosis.

Body temperature can often be affected by external environmental factors, leading to inaccuracies. In winter, due to cold weather and low indoor temperatures, heat does not dissipate easily under the blanket, resulting in a higher local temperature. Measuring body temperature under the blanket during winter may show falsely elevated readings. However, if you are experiencing other physical discomforts, this method usually yields inaccurate results, potentially causing errors that may interfere with a doctor's diagnosis and delay treatment. Therefore, it is advised to use proper methods for measuring body temperature to ensure accuracy of the results.

If body temperature is found to be abnormally low or high, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the specific cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance.