teething with nausea

Overview

Teething is when new baby teeth push through a child's gums. Nausea is that feeling of wanting to be sick. During teething, children often drool more, and swallowing extra drool can make their tummy feel a little unsettled. Real vomiting and severe nausea are not normal teething signs.

Teething is very common, and most babies have some drooling and irritability. However, true nausea and vomiting are not typical teething symptoms. Research suggests that symptoms like fever and diarrhea are more likely from an infection than from teething.

Teething affects infants and toddlers, usually between 6 months and 3 years old. Every child goes through it.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Swollen, tender gums
• More drooling than usual
• Chewing on fingers or objects
• Mild fussiness or irritability
• Flushed cheeks

Symptoms in children

• Gagging or a little spit-up from swallowing extra drool
• Loose poos (mildly)
• Refusing some foods but still willing to drink
• Rubbing their cheek or ear

Causes

Main causes

• The pressure of teeth moving through the gums causes pain and swelling.
• Excess drool during teething is swallowed and can make a baby's stomach mildly upset.
• Most 'teething symptoms' like fever and vomiting are actually caused by common viruses that occur at the same age.

Risk factors

• Being in the teething age range (around 6–24 months)
• Having a sensitive stomach or mild reflux, which can make spit-up more noticeable

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your doctor within a few hours if your child has vomiting that keeps coming back, a fever with a red rash, is in obvious pain, or won't drink at all.

Book a routine appointment if:

• During a routine baby check-up, mention any concerns about teething or feeding.

Diagnosis

A doctor will listen to your child's symptoms, examine the gums, and ask about feeding and nappy changes. They will look for signs of another illness like an ear infection or a stomach virus.

Tests that may be done

• Most children need no tests. If there is a fever or vomiting, the doctor may check for infection with a urine test or other simple checks.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will tell you what they think is causing the symptoms, give you advice on comforting your child, and let you know what to watch for.

Treatment

There is no cure for teething, and none is needed. Treatment is about soothing sore gums and making your child comfortable. If a tummy upset happens from too much drool, frequent small sips and a calm feeding routine usually help.

Self-care at home

• Gently rub your child's gums with a clean finger.
• Use a cool (not frozen) teething ring or a clean, damp cloth to chew on.
• Wipe away drool to prevent rash around the mouth.
• Offer small, frequent feeds to keep your child hydrated.
• Give your child extra cuddles and patience during fussy times.

Medical treatments

Doctors sometimes recommend over-the-counter pain relief medicine for teething discomfort, but it is not routine. Never give any medicine to a baby without asking a doctor or pharmacist first. There are no prescribed treatments for teething nausea.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for teething.

Living with this condition

Expect a few days of extra fussiness. Keep your normal routine, but be ready to pause for cuddles. Watch for signs of illness, and remember most teething trouble only lasts a few days per tooth.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your child's face clean and dry to avoid a drool rash.
• Offer a clean rubber teether or a cold cloth.
• Wash your hands and toys often to reduce infections.
• Take a breath and step away for a moment if you feel overwhelmed — caring for yourself helps you care for your child.

Diet and exercise

For babies, continue with breast milk or formula. Older infants can sip cooled boiled water. Once eating solids, offer soft foods that are easy to swallow. There is no special exercise for teething, but tummy time and gentle play are fine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a cranky, teething baby can be tiring and stressful. It is completely normal to feel frustrated. Make sure to rest when the baby sleeps and ask family or friends for help.

Prevention

Teething cannot be prevented — it is a normal part of growing. You can, however, prevent drool rash by wiping away excess saliva and by keeping your child comfortable and hydrated.

Vaccines

Routine childhood vaccinations are important for overall health, but they do not prevent teething.

Screening programmes

There is no screening needed for teething. Doctors only check a baby's growth and teeth at well-baby visits.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration can happen if vomiting or refusing drinks goes on too long.
• A sore gum can become more painful if a child tries to bite hard objects — offer safe teethers instead.
• An unrecognized infection might get worse, which is why it is important to see a doctor if symptoms persist.

Long-term outlook

Teething is a temporary stage. Each tooth usually breaks through within a few days, and your child will soon be back to normal. With a little patience and comfort, both you and your baby will get through this.

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