The teething phase in babies can be frustrating for parents, considering that most of them don’t know the signs. It is, therefore, essential to understanding the symptoms. In this article, I will reveal the common symptoms, explain their relationship with teething, and reveal some methods that you can apply to soothe the pain. To begin with, for most babies, their teething may start when they are around six months old. When your baby is around this age, the immunity that they received from you in the placenta, begins to diminish and their immunity begins to establish itself. When babies are around this age, they are prone to minor infections. Considering the two changes taking place in their bodies, the teething symptoms are often confused with cold symptoms or that of a minor illness. 

Let’s have an in-depth look at some of the teething symptoms.

1. Frequent Pulling of the Ears and Rubbing of the Cheeks

During the teething phase, your baby is under immense pain, and you will notice them either pulling their ears or rubbing their cheeks. Pulling of the ears might be a sign of an ear infection, therefore, it’s always advisable that you get more info either from an online source or from a pediatrician before you conclude that your baby is teething. During this time, try massaging your baby’s gums with your fingers for about two minutes. The process might ease the pain, but the best idea would be to seek help from a professional.

2. Fever

Babies tend to experience some form of fever that may reveal itself if the temperature varies between 97 and 100 degrees or when you notice the infant regularly placing dirty hands in the mouth. The pain that results from teething often prompts babies to put their hands in their mouths as they try to soothe the pain; such a habit could result in fever. However, if the temperature rises above 100 degrees, you should visit the pediatrician since it could be a sign of a greater illness.

3. Skin Rashes

In most cases, teething tends to stimulate the development of some skin rashes, and around this time, your baby might drool a lot. The excessive drooling might cause rashes around the neck, chin, cheeks, and mouth regions. The rashes are a result of bacteria found on the skin, therefore, ensure that you keep the spots with rashes dry. Wipe the areas frequently and consider applying a barrier cream recommended by a doctor. The cream will keep the skin dry and will help in the healing process.

4. Irritability

Your baby will most likely be irritated by the discomfort they feel in their mouth. The pain is a result of the teeth that are cropping up from the gums. In most cases, the eruption of incisors and molars are the most disturbing for babies. It’s advisable to cuddle your baby around this time, considering that they are under some intense pain. That extra effort you put sleeping beside your baby will help alleviate the pain for the baby is reassured, and he feels comforted and loved by the mother.

5. Gnawing or Biting

The pressure generated when biting anything can cause some pain on the baby’s gums. In such a case, some cold fluid might work wonders; try mixing water with the baby’s food then freeze it to create a popsicle. Besides, you can purchase some teething toys or offer your baby chew beads or teeth rings that are either chilled or frozen.

6. Signs of Diarrhea

Some baby specialists believe that during teething, the baby produces excess saliva, and this might cause the stool to be watery. If you notice signs of diarrhea, it could be a result of teething, but it’s always advisable to seek a pediatrician’s opinion. Your baby might be suffering from a stomach infection, and diarrhea often results in dehydration. Consult a pediatrician before making any conclusions; you might end up regretting it.

7. Frequent Coughs

Your baby will produce excess saliva when teething, and this often results in a gag or cough. When you notice the excessive coughs or when you see signs of fever or cold, visit the pediatrician who will help in identifying the illness. The cough symptoms might be a result of teething, but the cold symptoms might be an indicator that your baby is sick.

Teething is a phase in every child’s life, and with the above information, you can quickly determine whether your baby is going through the stage. It is essential to seek professional help any time you notice some weird symptoms in your baby since it could be a sign of a different illness.