Teething is a milestone in every baby’s development, but it can come with its fair share of discomfort. As little teeth begin to emerge, parents often see symptoms like drooling, gum irritation, and fussiness. However, one question that many parents ask is whether teething can cause vomiting.
While teething can lead to some unusual behaviors and discomfort, vomiting is generally not a typical symptom. In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between teething and vomiting, clarify common concerns, and help you understand when vomiting might indicate a more serious issue. Let’s dive into the facts and help ease your worries during this challenging yet exciting stage!
Table of Contents
What Is Teething?
Teething is the natural process during which a baby’s first set of teeth, also known as primary or milk teeth, begin to emerge through the gums. This milestone typically starts around 4 to 7 months of age, though it can vary from child to child.
The process continues until about the age of 3, by which time most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth. While exciting, teething can also be a challenging phase for both babies and parents, as it often causes discomfort and irritability in little ones.
The symptoms of teething can vary but commonly include swollen or tender gums, increased drooling, and a strong urge to chew on objects. Babies may also show changes in appetite, disrupted sleep patterns, or mild fussiness during this time.
In some cases, teething might be accompanied by a slight increase in body temperature, but it’s important to note that it does not cause high fever or illness.
To ease teething discomfort, parents can offer teething rings, gently massage the baby’s gums, or provide a clean, cold washcloth for the baby to chew on. If symptoms seem severe or unusual, it’s advisable to consult a pediatrician to rule out other possible causes of discomfort.
Related: Does Teething Cause Diarrhea In Toddlers: Is There A Link?
Do Babies Vomit During Teething?
While teething is a natural developmental stage that can cause discomfort in infants, current medical consensus indicates that it does not directly cause vomiting. Typical teething symptoms include increased drooling, gum irritation, and a mild rise in body temperature, but not high fever or gastrointestinal issues like vomiting.
If an infant experiences vomiting during the teething period, it is likely due to an unrelated underlying condition, such as a viral or bacterial infection. It’s important for caregivers to monitor the infant’s symptoms closely. Persistent vomiting, especially when accompanied by other signs like high fever, diarrhea, or refusal to eat, should prompt consultation with a pediatrician to identify and address the actual cause.
Related: Newborn Not Pooping But Passing Gas: Is It Normal?
Teething And Vomiting At Night: Is It Common?
Teething is a significant milestone in a baby’s development, often accompanied by discomfort, irritability, and changes in behavior. However, vomiting at night is not a typical symptom of teething. While teething can lead to increased drooling, gum pain, and disrupted sleep, vomiting usually points to other underlying issues rather than being directly caused by teething.
In some cases, excessive drooling associated with teething might lead to gagging or mild reflux, which parents might mistake for vomiting. However, persistent vomiting, especially during the night, is more likely to be caused by factors like gastrointestinal infections, food intolerances, or other medical conditions.
If your baby vomits frequently or exhibits additional symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or lethargy, it’s crucial to consult a pediatrician to identify the root cause.
To ensure your baby’s comfort during teething, focus on managing common teething symptoms with remedies like chilled teething rings, gum massage, or over-the-counter teething gels (as advised by a pediatrician). While teething and nighttime discomfort are common, vomiting should not be overlooked, as it may signal a condition that requires medical attention.
Related: Baby Not Passing Urine Since 6, 12, Or 24 Hours? Know Why
Why A Child Might Vomit During Teething?
Teething itself is not a direct cause of vomiting, but certain factors associated with teething may contribute to an upset stomach or gag reflex in some children. One possible reason is the increased drooling during teething, which might lead to swallowing excess saliva.
This can sometimes upset a child’s stomach, especially if their digestive system is sensitive, resulting in mild vomiting or spitting up.
Another factor could be the behaviors associated with teething, such as chewing on objects to relieve gum pain. Children might accidentally ingest bacteria from unclean toys or hands, which could lead to minor stomach infections or vomiting.
Additionally, during the teething period, a baby’s immune system might be slightly weakened, making them more susceptible to infections that can cause vomiting.
It’s important for parents to monitor the child closely. Persistent or severe vomiting is not normal and may indicate an unrelated issue, such as a viral or bacterial infection, food intolerance, or gastrointestinal problem. If your child vomits frequently during teething, consult a pediatrician to rule out other causes and ensure proper treatment.
While teething can be a challenging time, managing the symptoms and maintaining hygiene can help reduce discomfort and potential complications.
Related: Toddler Dry Cough: Common Causes And Symptoms
How To Manage Teething Symptoms?
Managing teething symptoms can help ease your baby’s discomfort and make this developmental milestone a bit easier for both you and your little one. While teething is a natural process, it often comes with symptoms like gum irritation, drooling, and mood changes. Here are some effective ways to help soothe your baby during this time:
- Offer Teething Rings Or Toys: Chilled teething rings or soft, safe toys for babies to chew on can provide relief by numbing the gums and helping to reduce pain. Avoid freezing teething rings as they may become too hard and cause injury. Make sure the toys are clean and free from small parts that could pose a choking hazard.
- Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help soothe the irritation. The pressure can alleviate some of the discomfort and provide comfort when your baby is feeling fussy.
- Cold Washcloth: A cold, damp washcloth is another great remedy. Let your baby chew or suck on the cloth, as the coolness can numb the gums and reduce inflammation. Ensure the washcloth is clean and free from dirt or bacteria.
- Over-The-Counter Teething Gels: Some pediatricians recommend over-the-counter teething gels to help numb the gums. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider to ensure the gel is safe for your baby and follow the application instructions carefully.
- Pain Relief Medication: If your baby seems in significant discomfort, you may consider using over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. However, always consult with a pediatrician before administering any medication to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for your baby’s age and health condition.
- Keep The Baby Comfortable: Teething often disrupts a baby’s sleep patterns. Creating a calm, soothing environment at bedtime and maintaining a consistent sleep routine can help your baby settle. Holding and comforting your baby more frequently can also provide emotional relief during this period.
- Stay Alert For Other Symptoms: While mild discomfort and fussiness are normal, be aware of any unusual symptoms, such as high fever, diarrhea, or rashes. These symptoms may indicate an illness unrelated to teething, and it’s important to seek medical advice if they occur.
By staying proactive and using a combination of these soothing techniques, you can help manage teething symptoms and keep your baby comfortable as they go through this important stage of development.
Related: Using Diapers 24/7 For Babies: Is It Good Or Bad?
When To See A Doctor?
Vomiting is not a common symptom of teething, and if your baby is vomiting frequently, it’s important to seek medical advice to rule out other causes. While teething can lead to drooling and discomfort, it should not cause severe or persistent vomiting.
If vomiting occurs alongside other symptoms like high fever, diarrhea, or changes in behavior, it could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as a viral or bacterial infection, food intolerance, or gastrointestinal problem.
You should contact a pediatrician if:
- Vomiting persists: If your baby vomits repeatedly or for more than a day, it’s crucial to get medical advice. Vomiting that doesn’t resolve could be a sign of an infection or other medical condition that requires treatment.
- High fever accompanies vomiting: While mild fever can occur during teething, a high fever (above 100.4°F or 38°C) is not typical and could indicate an infection, such as a stomach virus or respiratory illness.
- Other concerning symptoms arise: If your baby experiences additional symptoms like lethargy, dehydration (such as dry mouth or fewer wet diapers), or severe abdominal pain, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.
- Vomiting occurs shortly after feeding or swallowing objects: If the vomiting happens after your baby eats or swallows something, it may indicate a digestive issue, food intolerance, or choking risk.
In most cases, teething discomfort can be managed at home, but persistent vomiting or any of the above signs should not be ignored. A pediatrician can help determine the cause of the vomiting and provide the appropriate care to ensure your baby’s health and well-being.
Related: Why Is My Baby’s Head Hot But Body Cold? Know What It Means
FAQs
1. Can Teething Cause A Baby To Throw Up?
Teething itself does not directly cause vomiting, but excessive drooling or gagging from teething may occasionally lead to mild vomiting. Persistent vomiting is more likely to be caused by other factors.
2. What Does Teething Sickness Look Like?
Teething symptoms typically include swollen gums, irritability, increased drooling, mild fever, and a tendency to chew on objects. It does not usually cause severe illness or vomiting.
3. Can Teething Make A Baby Sick To Their Stomach?
While teething can cause mild discomfort, it doesn’t typically upset the stomach. However, excessive drooling or swallowing saliva might occasionally lead to a mild stomach upset or gagging.
4. What Are The Worst Symptoms Of Teething?
The most intense symptoms of teething include significant gum pain, irritability, disrupted sleep, and increased drooling. In some cases, babies may experience mild fever or loss of appetite.
5. When To Worry About Baby Vomiting?
If vomiting is persistent, severe, or accompanied by symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or dehydration, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to rule out infections or other medical conditions.
6. Is It Normal To Get Sick When Teething?
It is not normal for a baby to become seriously ill due to teething. Teething can cause discomfort and mild symptoms like drooling or slight fever, but vomiting or severe illness is usually unrelated.
7. How Long Does Teething Sickness Last?
Teething symptoms typically last for a few days to a week, with each tooth coming in at different times. The discomfort often peaks when the tooth breaks through the gum.
8. What Causes A Baby To Vomit Through The Nose And Mouth?
Vomiting through the nose and mouth can occur due to excessive drooling or gagging, which can be more pronounced during teething. However, it may also indicate a respiratory issue or infection.
9. Do Babies Poop More When Teething?
Some babies may experience changes in bowel movements, such as more frequent stools or looser stools, during teething, although this is not always the case. It’s typically mild and resolves on its own.
Conclusion
While teething can cause a variety of discomforts such as drooling, gum pain, and irritability, vomiting is generally not a typical symptom associated with this natural process. If your baby vomits during teething, it may be due to other underlying issues, such as a gastrointestinal infection or food intolerance.
It’s essential to monitor your baby closely and consult a pediatrician if vomiting persists, is accompanied by high fever, or occurs alongside other concerning symptoms. By understanding the differences between teething discomfort and other potential causes of vomiting, you can ensure your baby’s health and comfort during this important developmental stage.
