No, teething does not directly cause a runny nose. However, many parents notice nasal symptoms appearing around the same time their baby starts teething. This overlap can create confusion because teething usually begins when babies are more vulnerable to mild infections and environmental irritants. Understanding what is truly related to teething and what is not can help parents respond appropriately.
This uncertainty can be stressful, especially when symptoms like congestion, drooling, or fussiness appear together. Parents often wonder whether these changes are normal or a sign of illness. This is why families frequently seek reassurance from our pediatric services when symptoms seem unclear or persistent.
What Is Teething?
Teething is the natural developmental process in which a baby’s primary teeth gradually emerge through the gums, usually starting between 4 and 7 months of age. This can cause localized gum inflammation, increased saliva production, and mild discomfort. While teething is a normal stage of growth, it can temporarily affect a baby’s comfort and behavior.
A larger prospective cohort study found that 73% of infants experienced one or more teething symptoms, with irritability (40.5%), fever (38.9%), and diarrhea (36.0%) being commonly reported.
How To Tell If Baby Is Teething
- Swollen Or Sensitive Gums: Gums may appear red or puffy, especially where a tooth is about to erupt, causing tenderness during feeding.
- Excessive Drooling: Increased saliva is common and may contribute to a teething rash.
- Chewing Or Biting Objects: Babies often gnaw on fingers, toys, or teething rings to relieve gum pressure.
- Irritability Or Fussiness: Gum discomfort can make babies more unsettled, particularly during sleep.
- Changes In Feeding Or Sleep: Mild discomfort may temporarily disrupt routine.
How Long Does Teething Last?
Teething occurs in phases rather than all at once. Each tooth may cause symptoms for a few days before and after eruption, while the overall teething process can continue until about 3 years of age, as all baby teeth gradually appear.
Does Teething Cause Runny Nose?
Teething does not cause a runny nose. While teething and nasal congestion often occur around the same age, medical evidence shows that gum inflammation does not trigger mucus production. A runny nose while teething is usually coincidental and more likely caused by mild viral infections or environmental factors. This explains why parents often associate teething with a runny nose, even though the two are not directly connected.
Why Runny Nose Happen During Teething
A runny nose in babies usually occurs when the nasal lining reacts to irritation, infection, or allergens. Infants have smaller nasal passages and developing immune systems, which makes them more sensitive to mild triggers. Although many parents notice a runny nose during teething, the actual cause is rarely the tooth eruption itself.
- Viral Infections: Common colds are the leading cause of a runny nose in infants.
- Developing Immune System: Babies produce more mucus when responding to new germs.
- Environmental Irritants: Dry air, smoke, or strong odors can irritate the nasal passages.
- Excess Drooling: Heavy drooling during teething can mix with nasal secretions, giving the appearance of congestion.
What Else Could Cause A Runny Nose?
Runny noses in infants can have several other causes beyond teething and minor infections. Identifying these possibilities helps ensure proper care and prevents unnecessary worry.
- Allergies: Sensitivity to dust, pollen, or pet dander may cause persistent nasal discharge.
- Upper Respiratory Infections: These can produce thicker mucus and longer-lasting symptoms.
- Cold Or Dry Weather: Sudden temperature changes may stimulate nasal mucus production.
- Skin Irritation From Drool: Excess saliva can lead to a teething rash on the face or rash on the face when teething.
When To See A Doctor?
Most cases of a runny nose during teething are mild and resolve on their own. However, a medical evaluation is necessary if symptoms persist or worsen. Prompt attention helps prevent complications and ensures your baby remains comfortable. Seek medical care if your baby has:
- Fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C).
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge lasting more than 10 days.
- Difficulty breathing or poor feeding.
- Unusual lethargy or signs of dehydration.
If any of these occur, contact St. Michael’s Elite Hospital for immediate pediatric evaluation.
Also Read: When to Seek Medical Care for a Baby
How To Help A Teething Baby
Teething can be uncomfortable, and supportive care plays an important role in easing your baby’s distress. Comfort-focused strategies help reduce gum pain, drooling-related irritation, and associated fussiness. Proper care also minimizes complications such as teething rash, teething fever concerns, and confusion with teething and diarrhea.
- Teething Rings: Chilled (not frozen) rings provide gentle pressure to soothe gums.
- Gum Massage: Clean fingers can gently massage the gums to relieve discomfort.
- Teething Pain Medicine: Pediatrician-approved doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used when necessary.
- Skin Protection: Keeping the face dry helps prevent drool-related irritation.
Treatment For Runny Nose
Treatment for a runny nose should be based on its actual cause rather than assuming it is due to teething. Supportive care focuses on improving breathing comfort and maintaining hydration while monitoring for signs of infection.
- Saline Nasal Drops: Help thin mucus and improve nasal clearance.
- Bulb Suctioning: Gentle removal of mucus, especially before feeding or sleep.
- Cool-Mist Humidifier: Moistens air and soothes irritated nasal passages.
- Adequate Fluids And Rest: Support immune function and recovery.
St. Michael’s Elite Hospital – Teething & Runny Nose Care
At St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, our pediatric care team is here to support families managing teething discomfort and runny nose symptoms. If you notice persistent nasal congestion, irritability, or feeding difficulties, our clinicians provide thorough assessments to identify the underlying cause and guide effective treatment. Timely care ensures your baby remains comfortable and safe during this developmental stage.
For families seeking additional support, the ST. Michael Elite Hospital is also available for urgent pediatric evaluation when symptoms suddenly worsen. If you’re wondering, “Can teething cause a runny nose?”, a medical check-up can clarify whether nasal congestion is related to teething or an unrelated infection, helping parents take informed steps for relief and recovery.