If your baby is drooling, cranky, and suddenly sounds stuffy, you are not alone. Many parents notice that teething symptoms and congestion tend to overlap. However, it can be hard to know what’s normal, what’s teething, and what might need a closer look. The good news? There are gentle ways to care for your baby through these uncomfortable times while also staying attentive to their overall health. Here’s what to know and how to help.
Teething typically begins between 4 and 7 months of age — a developmental window when babies are:
- Gradually losing some of the protective antibodies they were born with
- Exploring the world by putting hands and objects in their mouths
- Becoming more exposed to everyday viruses
Because of this, it’s very common for babies to experience teething discomfort and mild congestion at the same time.
While teething itself is usually linked to symptoms like irritability and tender gums, congestion is often related to environmental factors or a mild illness that just happens to coincide with tooth eruption.
Common Signs of Teething
Your baby may be teething if you notice: increased drooling, swollen or sensitive gums, chewing on hands, toys, or clothing, fussiness, or disrupted sleep. These symptoms tend to come and go and are often most noticeable in the days surrounding a tooth breaking through the gum.
Signs of Congestion May Be Something More
Congestion may be unrelated to teething if your baby has symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, thick nasal discharge, coughing, trouble feeding, or a fever. If congestion lasts for more than a few days or worsens, it’s time to check in with your pediatrician.
Gentle Ways to Relieve Teething Symptoms
When teething discomfort strikes, comfort measures can go a long way. Gently massage your teething baby’s gums with a clean finger or offer your little one a chilled teething ring. You can also allow your baby to chew on a cool, damp washcloth and provide extra cuddles. Some parents also choose homeopathic medicines such as Camilia Original or Camilia Bedtime, which are formulated to provide relief from painful gums, irritability, and minor digestive upsets sometimes associated with teething.* Camilia Bedtime also eases nighttime restlessness* in addition to relief from the symptoms listed above.
Worry-Free Ways to Relieve Baby Cold Symptoms
If your baby is congested, these simple steps can help them feel more comfortable. Use nasal drops to help loosen mucus and gentle suction with a bulb syringe. Keep a cool mist humidifier in the room. When awake, holding your baby slightly upright may help ease nasal drainage. You can also utilize ColdCalm Baby by Boiron to address sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion at every stage of a common cold.*
A Reminder for Moms
Teething and congestion can be tiring for babies and parents alike. This phase is temporary, even if it feels long in the moment. With patience, gentle care, and attention to your baby’s cues, you’re supporting them exactly as they need.
Find out more about how to support your little ones during this time by visiting ColdCalm.com and Camilia.com.
*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
