The question of whether a runny nose is a symptom of teething is a common source of confusion for many parents. While the arrival of a new tooth can bring uncomfortable changes, separating a typical teething reaction from a mild illness can be difficult. Understanding the medical consensus and the subtle differences in symptoms is important for providing comfort and knowing when to seek professional medical advice.
Is a Runny Nose Directly Caused by Teething?
The medical consensus is that teething does not directly cause a true nasal infection or a cold. The symptoms parents interpret as a runny nose are more accurately an overflow reaction to tooth eruption. Teething stimulates increased salivation, leading to excessive drooling. This surplus saliva can thin and irritate the lining of the nasal passages as it pools around the face and mouth, mimicking a mild head cold even without a virus. The discharge associated with teething is typically clear, lasts only a short time, and is a secondary effect, not a sign of a primary respiratory illness.
The Primary Indicators of Teething
The primary indicators of teething are localized to the mouth and the baby’s behavior. These signs include swollen, red, or tender gums where the tooth is preparing to break through. The discomfort drives babies to chew and gnaw on objects excessively as they seek pressure relief.
Parents often notice increased drooling, which can lead to a mild rash on the chin or cheeks due to constant moisture. Teething babies may also experience increased fussiness, irritability, and slight disruptions to their usual sleeping or eating patterns. A slight elevation in body temperature, sometimes called a low-grade temperature, may occur, but this generally remains below 100.4°F (38°C).
Differentiating Teething from Common Illness
Distinguishing between a mild teething reaction and a developing illness requires attention to the severity and nature of the symptoms. A temperature that reaches or exceeds 101°F (38.3°C) is not a normal symptom of teething and suggests an infection. Any persistent or high fever should prompt a call to a healthcare provider.
The quality of the nasal discharge is a key differentiator; a true cold or infection often produces a thicker discharge that may be yellow or green. Symptoms such as a persistent cough, vomiting, or diarrhea are usually not caused by tooth eruption. If a runny nose is accompanied by a refusal to drink, wheezing, or unusual lethargy, the baby is likely experiencing a virus or bacterial infection, not just teething discomfort.
Teething symptoms are short-lived, typically lasting only a few days around the time the tooth erupts. If symptoms persist for more than a few days, or if the baby seems progressively sicker, contact a pediatrician.
Practical Relief for Discomfort
Parents can provide relief for the discomfort associated with teething and the related mild nasal discharge. Gently massaging the baby’s gums with a clean finger or a damp gauze pad can help relieve pressure and soothe tenderness. Offering a chilled, firm rubber teething ring or a cold, damp washcloth can provide a numbing sensation for the sore gums.
Chill teethers in the refrigerator rather than freezing them solid, as overly hard items can potentially harm the gums. For pain significantly disrupting sleep or feeding, an age-appropriate dose of an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen may be used after consulting with a pediatrician. Parents should avoid topical numbing gels containing benzocaine, as these are not recommended for infants.
Managing the mild, watery nasal discharge involves keeping the baby’s face clean and dry to prevent skin irritation. For babies with noticeable congestion, a few drops of saline solution followed by gentle nasal suction can help clear the passageways. Ensure the baby stays well-hydrated, especially if feeding is disrupted or drooling is excessive.