Teething is a natural process that every baby goes through, but it can be a difficult time for both the baby and parents.
One of the most common symptoms parents have is about the teething runny nose. Parents often wonder if a runny nose is a normal part of teething, or if it’s a sign of something else.
While some experts believe that teething can cause a runny nose, others disagree. According to Medical News Today, there is no evidence that teething causes a runny nose, fever, or other symptoms.
However, a study by Today’s Parent found that symptoms associated with teething included rashes, drooling, runny noses, short-lived diarrhea, crankiness, loss of appetite, and mild fever.
It’s important to note that a runny nose can also be a sign of a cold or other infection. If your baby has a fever, cough, or other symptoms, it’s best to consult with a doctor to rule out any other health issues.
In this article, we’ll explore the topic of teething and runny nose in more detail, including what causes a runny nose during teething, how to see false symptoms, distinguish between teething and a cold, and tips for managing your baby’s symptoms.
Symptoms of Teething
Teething Runny Nose
When a baby is teething, parents may notice a runny nose. While some doctors have found symptoms consistent with teething, such as irritability, drooling, and loss of appetite, a runny nose is not a common symptom of teething.
According to Seattle Children’s, teething does not cause a runny nose or other illness symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or diaper rash. However, some parents and caregivers of kids may still notice a runny nose during teething.
Other Teething Symptoms
Besides a runny nose, there are other symptoms that parents should look out for during teething. These symptoms may include:
Excessive drooling
Irritability
Biting or chewing on objects
Swollen or tender gums
Difficulty sleeping
Loss of appetite
Ear rubbing or pulling
It is important to note that not all babies will experience the same symptoms during teething. Some babies may have no symptoms at all, while others infants may have multiple symptoms. If parents are concerned about their baby’s symptoms, they should talk to a healthcare provider.
Teething vs. Illness
It can be difficult to distinguish between teething symptoms and illness symptoms. Some symptoms, like a runny nose or mild fever, may be present during both teething and illness.
However, if a baby has a high fever, diarrhea, vomiting or other severe symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can help determine if the symptoms are related to teething or an illness.
Causes of Teething Runny Nose
Teething is a natural process that occurs when the baby’s teeth start to emerge from the gums. While it is common for babies to experience discomfort and pain during this process, it is also common for them to develop a runny nose. The following are some of the causes of teething runny nose:
Inflammation: When the teeth start to emerge from the gums, the surrounding tissues become inflamed. This inflammation can cause an increase in mucus production, leading to a runny nose.
Immune System: The immune system of a baby is still developing, and during the teething process, it can become weakened. This can make the baby more susceptible to infections, which can cause a runny nose.
Drooling: When a baby is teething, they tend to drool more than usual. This excess drooling can cause irritation around the mouth and nose, leading to a runny nose.
It is important to note that not all runny noses during teething are caused by the teething process itself. Other factors such as infections, allergies, and environmental irritants can also cause a runny nose in babies.
If your baby’s runny nose is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or cough, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.
Treatment Options
Natural Relief
Safety 1st Baby Aspirator
This simple aspirator is a natural way to remove any mucous build up for your little one. A budget friendly way to help congested babies!
Budget Friendly Humidifier
Cool Mist Humidifier
A humidifier in the nursery can help ease sore throats and congestion- without needing to introduce medications.
Best value
Baby Cloth wipes
Avoid rash by keeping your baby’s nose and face dry with these soft and gentle cloth wipes. They won’t cause irritation to sensitive skin like disposables do.
Teething runny nose can be quite uncomfortable for babies. Here are some treatment options that can help alleviate the symptoms:
Cleanse the nose: Use a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator to remove mucus from the baby’s nose. You can also use saline drops to loosen the mucus and make it easier to remove.
Use a humidifier: A humidifier can help keep the air moist, which can help relieve congestion and soothe a sore throat.
Apply a cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the baby’s face can help reduce inflammation and swelling. You can use a clean, damp washcloth or a chilled teething ring.
Massage the gums: Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger can help relieve teething pain and discomfort, you can use teething gels to help with the gum pain. There are a range of gum massage products out there that will help your little one through the teething phase.
Offer soft foods: Soft, cold foods like applesauce or yogurt can help soothe sore gums and provide relief.
It’s important to note that over-the-counter cold and cough medicines are not recommended for babies and children under the age of 2, as they can have serious side effects. Always consult with a pediatrician before giving any medication to your baby.
When to See a Doctor
While a runny nose during teething is common, there are times when you should seek medical advice. Here are some signs that your baby’s runny nose may be more than just teething:
The runny nose doesn’t improve after 10 days.
The nasal discharge is yellow or green and lasts for more than 10 to 14 days.
Your baby has a persistent cough for more than 10 days.
Your baby has a fever for more than three days.
Your baby is refusing to eat or drink.
Your baby seems to be in pain or is unusually fussy.
If your teething baby is experiencing any of these symptoms or other persistent symptoms, it’s important to consult your pediatrician. They can examine your baby and determine if there is an underlying infection or illness that needs to be treated.
In some cases, a runny nose during teething may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as ear pain, difficulty breathing, or a rash. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, and you should seek medical attention immediately.
Remember, as a parent, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re ever unsure about your baby or child’s health, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician. They can provide guidance and support to ensure your baby stays healthy and happy.
FAQs on Teething Baby
How do you tell if a runny nose is from teething?
It can be challenging to determine if a runny nose is caused by teething or another issue, such as a cold. However, if your baby has a runny nose along with other teething symptoms, such as gum swelling, irritability, and excessive drooling, it may be related to teething.
If your baby has additional cold symptoms like fever, cough, or congestion, it is more likely to be a cold rather than teething.
Can teething cause cold-like symptoms?
Teething can sometimes cause mild cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, fussiness, or mild fever. However, these first tooth through symptoms are generally mild and should not be accompanied by more severe cold symptoms like high fever, significant cough, or difficulty breathing.
Why does my baby have a clear runny nose?
A clear runny nose can result from various causes, including teething, allergies, or a mild viral infection. If your baby’s runny nose is accompanied by other teething symptoms, it may be related to teething. Consult your pediatrician if you are unsure of the cause or if the runny nose persists or worsens.
Can teething babies have snot and cough?
Teething can occasionally cause an increase in mucus production, leading to a runny nose and, in some cases, a mild cough. However, a more severe or persistent cough is more likely to be caused by a respiratory infection or another issue. Consult your pediatrician if your baby has a persistent or severe cough.
Can a baby have a runny nose and not be sick?
Yes, a baby can have a runny nose without being sick. A runny nose can be caused by teething, allergies, irritants in the air, or changes in temperature. If your baby has a runny nose but no other signs of illness, it may not be due to sickness.
Do babies get cold-like symptoms when teething?
Some babies may experience mild cold-like symptoms when teething, such as a runny nose or low-grade fever. However, teething does not typically cause severe cold symptoms like high fever, significant cough, or congestion.
A bad cold can cause ear infections, which can also mimic teething symptoms. Keep an eye on baby’s temperature as an elevated temperature might indicate infection or other illnesses.
Can a teething ring help ease teething symptoms?
A teething ring can help ease the pain associated with tooth eruption, though unfortunately is unlikely to ease a runny nose. That said, anything that eases the pain may make baby a little less miserable, especially when you can avoid using over the counter medications.
For extra relief, some teethers can be put in to the freezer.
What about teething necklaces?
There are various types of teething necklaces available. Some are worn by mom and the baby can chew on the soft silicone necklace in between breastfeeding sessions (breastfeeding also helps to ease gum irritation)
Amber teething necklaces are much more controversial, as they can pose a choking or strangulation hazard. Always be aware of safety guidelines for any product you buy for your baby.
