Does Teething Cause Diarrhoea and Vomiting?
The common belief that teething causes diarrhoea and vomiting is largely a misconception. While teething can make babies fussy, scientific evidence doesn’t support a direct causal link to these gastrointestinal symptoms.
Understanding Teething and Its Symptoms
Teething, the process of a baby’s first teeth erupting through the gums, is a natural and often uncomfortable experience. It typically begins around six months of age, although the timing can vary significantly from child to child. During teething, babies may exhibit several symptoms, including:
- Increased drooling
- Irritability and fussiness
- Chewing on objects
- Swollen or tender gums
- Slightly elevated temperature (below 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Increased desire for oral stimulation
However, it’s crucial to differentiate between symptoms directly related to teething and symptoms that might indicate an underlying illness.
Why the Misconception?
The timing of teething often coincides with other developmental milestones, such as starting solid foods and increased exposure to germs as babies become more mobile. These factors can contribute to gastrointestinal issues, leading parents to mistakenly attribute them to teething. In reality, diarrhoea and vomiting are more likely caused by infections, dietary changes, or other medical conditions occurring at the same time.
Another contributing factor to the misconception is that the increased drooling associated with teething can sometimes lead to looser stools. The excess saliva can irritate the digestive system, resulting in slightly softer bowel movements, but this is different from true diarrhoea.
Ruling Out Other Causes
When a baby is experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting, it’s essential to rule out other potential causes before attributing it to teething. Common causes of these symptoms in infants include:
- Viral Infections: Rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus are common culprits of gastroenteritis in babies.
- Bacterial Infections: Bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter can cause food poisoning and related symptoms.
- Food Allergies or Intolerances: Introducing new foods can sometimes trigger allergic reactions or intolerances, leading to digestive upset.
- Ear Infections: Ear infections can sometimes cause vomiting, especially in young infants.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause diarrhoea and vomiting as side effects.
A medical professional can perform necessary tests and provide an accurate diagnosis.
What to Do If Your Baby Has Diarrhoea and Vomiting
If your baby is experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting, it’s crucial to monitor them closely for signs of dehydration. Here are some steps to take:
- Hydration: Offer frequent small amounts of fluids, such as breast milk, formula, or an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte.
- Diet: If your baby is already eating solids, offer bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice cereal, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet).
- Monitor for Dehydration: Watch for signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, sunken eyes, and lethargy.
- Consult a Doctor: If your baby’s symptoms are severe or prolonged, consult a doctor immediately. Seek medical attention if you observe blood in the stool or vomit, high fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration.
| Symptom | Teething | Illness (e.g., gastroenteritis) |
|---|---|---|
| Diarrhoea | Rare, typically mild | Frequent and potentially severe |
| Vomiting | Very Rare | Common |
| Fever | Slightly Elevated (below 101°F) | Can be High |
| Irritability | Common | Common |
| Appetite | Mildly Affected | Can be Significantly Reduced |
Comforting Your Teething Baby
While teething itself may not cause diarrhoea and vomiting, the discomfort associated with it can still be challenging for both baby and parents. Here are some safe and effective ways to soothe a teething baby:
- Teething Toys: Offer a variety of teething toys made of safe, non-toxic materials. Chill them in the refrigerator (not the freezer) for added relief.
- Gum Massage: Gently massage your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth.
- Pain Relief: If your baby is experiencing significant pain, consult with your pediatrician about appropriate pain relief options, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). Never use benzocaine-containing products, as they can be harmful to infants.
- Cold Foods: Offer cold, soft foods, such as chilled yogurt or pureed fruits, to provide relief to sore gums.
Keeping a Healthy Environment
While teething does not directly cause diarrhoea and vomiting, remember that the increased mouthing and chewing associated with teething can increase the risk of exposure to germs. Therefore, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is essential during this phase. Regularly clean and sterilize teething toys and other objects that your baby puts in their mouth. Frequent handwashing for both caregiver and baby can help prevent the spread of infections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the belief that teething causes diarrhoea and vomiting is largely unfounded. While teething can be uncomfortable and lead to fussiness, these gastrointestinal symptoms are more likely caused by infections, dietary changes, or other medical conditions. It’s crucial to consult with a doctor if your baby is experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting to rule out other potential causes and ensure they receive appropriate care.
FAQ Section
Can teething directly cause vomiting?
No, teething itself does not directly cause vomiting. Vomiting is usually a sign of an underlying illness, such as a viral or bacterial infection, and should be investigated by a healthcare professional.
Does teething cause diarrhoea, or is that a myth?
The idea that teething directly causes diarrhoea is largely a myth. While increased drooling from teething might result in slightly looser stools due to saliva ingestion, it’s not the same as true diarrhoea caused by an infection or other medical condition.
What temperature is considered a fever when teething?
Teething can sometimes cause a slight increase in body temperature, but it’s usually not considered a true fever. A temperature above 101°F (38.3°C) is more likely due to an underlying illness and warrants medical attention.
How can I tell if my baby’s diarrhoea is from teething or something else?
If your baby has diarrhoea alongside other teething symptoms like fussiness and drooling, but no fever, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, it might be related to the increased saliva swallowing. However, if the diarrhoea is frequent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a doctor to rule out other potential causes.
What are the danger signs to watch out for when my baby has diarrhoea and vomiting?
Danger signs to watch out for include decreased urination, dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy, blood in the stool or vomit, high fever, and severe abdominal pain. If your baby exhibits any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, as they could be signs of dehydration or a serious underlying condition.
Are teething gels safe to use for my baby?
Some teething gels, particularly those containing benzocaine, are not recommended for infants due to the risk of a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia. Consult with your pediatrician about safer alternatives for relieving teething pain, such as chilled teething toys or gum massage.
What foods should I avoid giving my baby if they have diarrhoea?
When your baby has diarrhoea, it’s best to avoid giving them sugary drinks, fruit juices, and dairy products (unless they are breastfed or on formula) as these can worsen the symptoms. Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like bananas, rice cereal, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet).
How can I prevent my baby from getting sick while teething?
While you can’t prevent teething itself, you can minimize the risk of your baby getting sick by practicing good hygiene. Regularly clean and sterilize teething toys, wash your hands frequently, and avoid exposing your baby to sick individuals.
Can my baby get dehydrated from diarrhoea and vomiting?
Yes, babies can become easily dehydrated from diarrhoea and vomiting due to the loss of fluids and electrolytes. It’s crucial to offer frequent small amounts of fluids and monitor for signs of dehydration.
How long does teething usually last?
The teething process can last for several months, with individual teeth erupting over a period of days or weeks. The timing varies from baby to baby, but typically starts around 6 months of age and continues until all 20 primary teeth have emerged.
What are some alternatives to teething gels for pain relief?
Alternatives to teething gels include chilled teething toys, gentle gum massage with a clean finger or a soft, damp cloth, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin), after consulting with your pediatrician about appropriate dosage.
When should I consult a doctor about my baby’s teething symptoms?
You should consult a doctor if your baby has a high fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C), severe diarrhoea or vomiting, signs of dehydration, or if you are concerned about any other symptoms. These symptoms are not typically associated with teething and could indicate an underlying illness.