We have all been accustomed to using thermometers since childhood. Any time there is an illness in the family, the first thing that you do is check the affected individuals body temperature using this device. While you would still find the good old mercury-glass thermometer in most traditional households, technology has made huge strides in the world of healthcare and offered us with several advanced thermometer options to choose from. Why spend time comparing options online or in store when you can get all you need right here? We have compiled a list of some of the best thermometers available in India along with a bit about the different types and key features that you should look for while buying one.
Understanding different types of thermometers
Thermometers are essentially of five types (based on how you can use them)
1.Oral
2.Rectal
3.Forehead
4.Tympanic (ear)
5.Axillary (under the arm)
The type of thermometer that you need depends on your personal preference and the age of the patient. For instance, in the case of an infant, a forehead or tympanic thermometer would be a better option compared to an oral or rectal variant since babies and kids are generally difficult to deal with. Invasive methods like measuring the temperature through the rectum or mouth may get slightly tricky in such cases. Of course, you also get thermometers that are multipurpose. Heres the complete lowdown on the different kinds of thermometers that are great for measuring temperature:
- Mercury glass thermometers
Once the preferred (and perhaps the only) type of thermometer, the mercury glass thermometer is now considered outdated. Used for measuring temperatures orally, rectally or under the arm, these thermometers are difficult to read. Another downside to mercury glass thermometers is the fact that they release mercury (which is toxic) and break easily (since they are made of glass).
- Digital thermometers
Electronic thermometers are the norm today since they do not present any of the disadvantages that a mercury glass thermometer does. With digital displays and a strong body, these are easy to read, safe and user-friendly.
- Infrared thermometers
As the name suggests, these thermometers use infrared technology to gauge the heat on the surface (or cavity). The biggest advantage of an infrared thermometer is that it generates results very quickly within a matter of a few seconds. You also get ear and forehead variants of infrared thermometers with easy-to-read display screens.
- Basal thermometers
Basal thermometers are specifically used to gauge slight temperature changes in a womans body, indicating that ovulation has taken place. They are placed in the rectum or under the tongue and are very sensitive thermometers, although very rarely used at home.
What features should you look for in an ideal thermometer?
With a horde of thermometers available for you to choose from, how can you ensure that you pick the right one? Well, there is no such thing as the right thermometer, to start with. However, here is a list of must-haves that you should look for:
- Convenience
How easy is it to use the thermometer? Take into consideration the fact that you are choosing one for a senior citizen, who might be suffering from impaired vision or shaky hands. In such a case, you need to choose a thermometer that is easy to handle and delivers the temperature readings loud and clear.
- Accuracy
An all-important factor while choosing a thermometer is its ability to provide accurate readings. You dont want to risk it when it comes to dealing with body temperature and the potentially serious consequences it may have. Choose one that is scientifically tested and assures accurate results.
- Response time
Gone are the days of playing the waiting game. When we look for instant gratification in all walks of life, why should it be any different when it comes to healthcare? In fact, this is the one area where time is one of the most crucial factors. Pick a thermometer that delivers temperature readings quickly.
- Units of measurement
While we Indians are used to Celsius, there might be some of you who want the reading to be provided in Fahrenheit as well. Although this isnt essential, check if the thermometer you like offers the option of delivering results in both units of measurement.
- Safety
As mentioned above, mercury glass thermometers are known to be hazardous as well as brittle. The thermometer you choose should be sturdy, safe to use and ideally come in a plastic case so you can keep it securely when not in use.
Senioritys list of the top thermometers available online
Put your thermometer shopping (and shortlisting) worries to rest. We have curated a special list of thermometers that we rate very highly. Read on to learn about these handy products and understand their features and benefits before you make up your mind about which one you wish to buy.
1. Non-Contact Forehead And Ear Infrared Thermometer - Sahyog Wellness
This advanced technology Non-Contact Thermometer can measure temperature based on the relationship between temperature and measurable infrared radiations. It is an easy to use thermometer which provides accurate and reliable results in seconds. The thermometer has a memory feature where it saves the last 32 temperature readings for future reference.
2. Non-Contact Body And Object Infrared Thermometer - Sahyog Wellness
Use this advanced technology Thermometer to measure both, the temperature of your body as well as other objects. It is an easy to use thermometer which provides accurate and reliable results in seconds. It comes with a large LCD display and colour alarm featuring three backlight colours to indicate normal, high and fever state.
3. Multi-function Non Contact Infrared Thermometer
This easy to use Infrared Thermometer is designed to display accurate temperature readings without making contact with the body. Simply aim the device at the forehead at a distance of 1 to 5 cm. The Infrared thermometer features an easy to read, large screen LCD screen display.
4. Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer - Apollo Pharmacy
Infrared thermometer by Apollo Pharmacy is a dual mode, easy to use a thermometer with an auto switch off feature. It is accurate and reliable even under complicated surrounding and can also measure air temperature. It has an auto shut off feature and a fever alarm.
5. Multi-function Infrared Thermometer
This Infrared thermometer uses infrared temperature sensing technology and comes with a temperature calibration program. It is very simple to use; you just need to hold it at a distance of 5-15 cm and press the button to finish measurement. The thermometer has a large backlit LCD digital display which shows the readings clearly.
6. Non Contact Infrared Body Thermometer with intelligent Colour Alarm Fever Display - HeTaida
Keep a regular check on your body temperature with HE-Taida Infrared Thermometer. The thermometer allows you to measure the body’s temperature without touching the forehead. The IR thermometer provides accurate readings of up to 0.2 degrees Celsius in just 2 seconds. It can also be used to measure the temperature of any surface, feeding bottles, or any room.
7. Digital Infrared Thermometer - Clovia
With a high precision, Infrared thermometer by Clovia allows you to check your body temperature without contact. This thermometer has a response time of 0.5 second and works effectively at a distance of 5 to 15 cm. It comes with a backlit display which shows the readings and is ideal for both adults and children.
We hope this guide has been of help to you when it comes to choosing an ideal thermometer. Now that you are aware of the different types of thermometers, check out our range of thermometers online and take your pick!
