Can teething cause a runny nose is a question many parents ask when their baby starts drooling, fussing, and showing cold-like symptoms. Teething often coincides with a stage of rapid immune development, but it is important to clarify that teething itself does not cause a runny nose, fever, diarrhea, or rashes. These symptoms are frequently misattributed to teething simply because they occur around the same age.
This misunderstanding can sometimes delay proper care when symptoms are actually related to infections or other medical conditions. At our Altus Emergency Room in Lumberton, TX, we regularly help parents determine whether symptoms such as runny nose while teething are harmless coincidences or signs that need medical attention.
When Does Teething Start
Teething usually begins between 4 and 7 months of age, although some babies may start earlier or later. During this period, teeth gradually push through the gums, which can cause mild discomfort, drooling, and increased chewing behavior.
A cohort study published on PubMed reported that 73% of infants experienced one or more symptoms during teething, with irritability being the most common. However, not all symptoms are caused directly by teething, and many are likely coincidental.
Signs Of Teething In Babies
- Increased drooling.
- Chewing on fingers, toys, or objects.
- Gum swelling or tenderness.
- Mild irritability or fussiness.
- Changes in sleep or feeding patterns.
Does Teething Cause Runny Nose
Teething does not cause a runny nose. Medically, tooth eruption does not stimulate the nasal passages or increase mucus production. While parents frequently notice teething and runny nose together, this timing overlap often leads to confusion. Most cases of runny nose while teething are actually caused by viral infections, environmental irritants, or immune system changes common in infancy.
Why Runny Nose May Be Related To Teething
Although teething is not the cause, several developmental factors can make a runny nose appear connected to teething. This stage of life includes increased exposure to germs, reduced maternal antibodies, and heightened oral exploration. These factors may make it seem like teething causes a runny nose, even when it does not.
- Immune System Transition: As maternal antibodies decrease, babies become more vulnerable to common respiratory viruses that cause nasal discharge.
- Increased Drooling: Excess drool can spread around the nose and mouth, sometimes being mistaken for nasal mucus or contributing to a teething rash on the face.
- Frequent Hand-To-Mouth Behavior: Babies place objects in their mouths more often during teething, increasing exposure to germs that lead to runny noses.
- Symptom Timing Overlap: The age when teething begins is also when colds and mild infections become more common.
Other Causes Of Runny Nose
A runny nose in infants is usually caused by conditions unrelated to teething. These causes should always be considered, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.
- Viral Infections: Common colds are the leading cause of runny nose in babies and may also include cough or congestion.
- Allergies: Environmental allergens can trigger nasal discharge, though allergies are less common in very young infants.
- Irritants: Smoke, pollution, strong scents, or dry air can irritate nasal passages.
- Associated Illnesses: Ear infections or sinus inflammation can present with prolonged nasal symptoms.
When To See A Doctor?
While teething discomfort is normal, symptoms such as persistent runny nose should not be dismissed automatically. Medical evaluation is important when symptoms suggest infection or illness rather than normal development.
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C).
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge lasting more than 10 days.
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
- Poor feeding, dehydration, or lethargy.
- Worsening symptoms alongside teething fever, teething rash, or teething and diarrhea.
If these symptoms are present, seek medical care promptly or contact Altus Emergency Centers for further evaluation and pediatric emergencies.
How To Help Teething Baby
Supporting a teething baby focuses on comfort and safe pain relief rather than treating unrelated symptoms. While teething does not cause a runny nose, it can cause gum discomfort that makes babies fussy and unsettled. Gentle soothing techniques and evidence-based pain relief can help babies cope during this stage without masking signs of illness.
- Teething Pain Medicine: Age-appropriate acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used for teething pain when recommended by a pediatrician.
- Cold Pressure Relief: Chilled (not frozen) teething rings or washcloths can soothe inflamed gums safely.
- Gum Massage: Gently rubbing the gums with a clean finger can help relieve pressure.
- Avoid Unsafe Products: Topical gels containing benzocaine or belladonna should be avoided due to safety risks.
Teething Remedies For Babies
- Cool Teething Rings: Firm silicone or rubber teethers provide safe gum pressure relief.
- Chilled Washcloths: A clean, damp, chilled cloth can calm sore gums without medication.
- Comfort And Distraction: Holding, rocking, and soothing interactions can reduce fussiness.
- Feeding Adjustments: For babies eating solids, cool, soft foods may provide temporary relief.
Altus Emergency Centers: Pediatric Teething Care
Wondering if teething causes a runny nose in your baby? At Altus Emergency Centers, our pediatric emergency care team evaluates your child’s symptoms, ensures proper hydration, and rules out infections or other underlying conditions. Prompt assessment helps parents distinguish normal teething signs from symptoms that need medical attention.
If your baby’s runny nose persists, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, lethargy, or feeding difficulties, our specialists are ready to provide compassionate, effective care. Altus Emergency Centers offers timely pediatric emergency care to manage symptoms safely, relieve discomfort, and support your child’s overall health during the teething phase.