Teething is a natural process that all babies go through, usually starting around 4-8 months of age. During this time, the baby’s teeth start to emerge from the gums, causing teething discomfort and pain. But can teething cause coughing too?
While most parents are aware of the more common symptoms of teething, such as drooling and irritability, many are surprised to learn that teething can also cause coughing. Solid teething rings often bring relief to the common symptoms.
The reason behind teething cough is excess saliva production. When the baby’s teeth start to emerge, they produce more saliva than usual, which can cause a build-up of mucus in the throat.
This mucus can then trigger a cough reflex, leading to a teething cough. While a teething cough is usually not a cause for concern, it can be distressing for both the baby and the parents.
Coughing and its causes
Overview of coughing
Coughing is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of mucus, irritants, and foreign particles. It is a common symptom of many respiratory and non-respiratory conditions.
Coughing can be acute or chronic, and it can be productive or non-productive. Productive coughs produce phlegm or mucus, while non-productive coughs do not.
Common causes of coughing
There are many possible causes of coughing, including respiratory infections, allergies, asthma, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Other less common causes of coughing include medications, environmental irritants, and underlying medical conditions such as heart failure or lung cancer.
One possible cause of coughing in babies is teething. Although the drool from teething can sometimes lead to occasional coughing, it’s more likely that your baby’s cough is caused by something else.
However, the excess saliva caused by teething may make your baby cough or gag occasionally. It’s important to note that more persistent coughing is likely a sign of illness, and you should consult your pediatrician if your baby’s cough persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing.
In summary, coughing is a common symptom of many respiratory and non-respiratory conditions. While teething may cause occasional coughing due to excess saliva, more persistent coughing is likely a sign of illness and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Relation between teething and coughing
Can teething cause coughing?
Teething is a normal process that all babies go through, usually starting between 4 and 7 months of age. During this time, babies experience a variety of symptoms, including drooling, fussiness, and gum swelling.
Many parents wonder if teething can cause coughing in babies. While it is possible for teething to lead to occasional coughing due to the excess saliva produced, persistent coughing is more likely a sign of an underlying illness.
How does teething cause coughing?
The excess saliva produced during teething can sometimes lead to coughing or gagging as the extra saliva sometimes collects at the back of the baby’s throat. However, this is usually a temporary issue that resolves on its own.
If the coughing persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, runny nose, or difficulty breathing, it may be a sign of a respiratory infection or other illness. It is important for parents to closely monitor their baby’s symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.
While teething can be uncomfortable for babies, it should not cause significant or ongoing coughing. If your baby is experiencing persistent coughing or other concerning symptoms, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Other Possible Causes of Coughing in Infants
Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia are common causes of coughing in infants.
These infections can cause inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, congestion, and difficulty breathing. Infants who have a respiratory infection may also have a fever, runny nose, and sore throat.
If you suspect that your infant has a respiratory infection, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms or prescribe antibiotics if the infection is bacterial.
Allergies
Allergies can also cause coughing in infants. Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and certain foods. Infants with allergies may also have symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, diaper rash, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.
If you suspect that your infant has allergies, talk to your healthcare provider. They may recommend allergy testing to identify the specific allergen and prescribe medications such as antihistamines or nasal sprays to relieve symptoms.
Your doctor should be able to establish if they are looking at a teething rash or a potential allergy. Both allergies and teething can cause diaper rash too so it’s important to speak to your baby’s pediatrician.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Infants with asthma may also have symptoms such as chest tightness, rapid breathing, and fatigue.
If you suspect that your infant has asthma, it is important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider may recommend breathing tests to diagnose the condition and prescribe medications such as inhalers or nebulizers to manage symptoms.
It is important to note that not all coughing in infants is related to teething. If your infant has persistent coughing or other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While a teething cough is generally harmless, there are times when you should seek emergency medical care or attention for your baby. If your baby’s cough is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. Here are some signs to look out for:
Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Blue lips or face
Dehydration
Refusal to eat or drink
Lethargy or irritability
If your baby exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Your baby’s doctor can determine the underlying cause of the cough and provide appropriate treatment.
It’s also important to seek immediate medical attention if your baby is coughing up blood or if the cough persists for more than two weeks. These may be signs of a more serious condition that requires medical intervention.
Remember, as a parent, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby’s health. If you’re ever unsure or concerned about your baby’s symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or seek immediate emergency medical care and attention.
Prevention and Treatment
Preventing coughing during teething
During teething, there are a few steps you can take to prevent coughing:
Keep your baby hydrated by offering water frequently. This can help thin out the mucus and reduce coughing.
Wipe your baby’s drool frequently to prevent skin irritation and coughing.
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and ease coughing.
Treating coughing during teething
If your teething baby is coughing, there are a few things you can do to help ease their discomfort:
Offer plenty of fluids to keep your baby hydrated and help thin out mucus.
Use a saline nasal spray or drops to help relieve congestion.
Elevate your baby’s head while sleeping to help reduce coughing at night.
Consider using a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture to the air and ease coughing.
If your baby’s cough is severe or persistent, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
It’s important to note that coughing during teething is usually mild and temporary. With proper care and attention, you can help your baby feel more comfortable during this time.
FAQS on Teething Babies Coughing
Can teething cause cough and congestion?
Teething may cause a mild cough due to increased drooling, but it typically does not cause congestion. If your baby is experiencing congestion, it is more likely to be due to a cold or other respiratory issue.
Why is my baby coughing but not sick?
A baby may cough for various reasons, even when not sick. Causes of coughing can include teething, swallowing saliva or mucus, exposure to irritants in the air, or mild allergies.
Can baby teething cause a croup-like cough?
Teething does not typically cause a croup-like cough. Croup is caused by a viral infection that results in inflammation of the upper airway, leading to a distinctive barking cough. If your baby has teething symptoms a croup-like cough, consult your pediatrician for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Is it normal for a baby to have a cough when teething?
A mild cough may occur during teething due to increased drooling, which can cause your baby to cough as they try to clear their throat.
However, a severe or persistent cough is not a normal teething symptom and may indicate a respiratory issue or another underlying problem. A wheezing cough that occurs for a long period can indicate asthma. Be aware of whooping cough- which has it’s own distinctive sound.
Can a baby have a runny nose with a teething cough?
A baby may have a runny nose with a teething cough, as teething can sometimes cause mild cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose and teething pain. However, if your baby has more severe cold symptoms like high fever, significant cough, or congestion, it is more likely to be a cold or another respiratory issue.
