Dealing with my child's teething

Are there symptoms associated with teething?

Common symptoms usually experienced by our babies around teething are:
• Drooling leading to a chin rash
• Refusing food
• Fussiness
• Gum swelling
• Not sleeping well
• Biting & gnawing

Most parents usually agree that their children have loose stools, runny noses, or a fever about 4 days before and up to 3 days after the tooth comes in. This is somehow controversial. One group of experts believes that teething can cause diarrhea because your child swallows the excessive saliva. According to this group's opinion, inflammation of the gums may cause a low grade fever (under 38.3 degrees Celsius).

On the other hand, other child development experts affirm that teething cannot cause fever or diarrhea and that these are signs of illness that happen together with teething and that need medical examination.

In all cases it is better to check with your pediatrician or call 2356 when your baby experiences any of these symptoms to rule out other possible causes.

How can I help my baby with the pain?

• Offer your child a teething aid (rubber teething ring or a cold washcloth to gnaw on). Frozen food can also do the job.
• Teething biscuits
• Massaging or rubbing your baby's gums
• Medications such as children's acetaminophen or topical pain relief gels can be of benefit — but check with your doctor or call 2356 before giving your child any medication.