Comparison of rectal and tympanic thermometry during exercise

Heat-related deaths are among the most preventable injuries in athletics. We sought to examine two methods of monitoring body temperature during exercise as a means of preventing heat-related illnesses. Ten adult subjects exercised in hot, humid conditions while body temperature was monitored by rectal (Tre) and tympanic (Tty) thermometry. Our results indicate that increase in Tty was significantly greater than increase in Tre during exercise. However, rectal temperatures continued to increase after exercise cessation and peak temperatures were not significantly different. Temperature readings of the two devices during exercise had a strong correlation. There was a poor correlation between the two methods of measurement in the recovery phase. Tympanic thermometry is reliable for monitoring changes in body temperature during exercise. This could be valuable for monitoring individuals during long exercise in an effort to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stoke.