Baby Hoarse Voice on Teething: Causes, Remedies & When to Seek Help

Baby Hoarse Voice on Teething: How to Help Your Baby

As a mother of two, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges that come with teething babies. One issue that surprised me was my baby’s hoarse voice during teething. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and some in-depth information to help you navigate this phase with ease.

This will provide you with the information you need to address your baby’s hoarse voice and know when to seek professional help.

Normal Baby Hoarse Voice	When to Worry
Increased drooling during teething.	Persistent hoarseness for more than two weeks.
Mild irritation and inflammation in the throat.	Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Occasional fussiness due to teething pain.	High fever (higher than 100.4°F or 38°C).
Temporary hoarseness lasting a few days.	Lethargy or refusal to eat.
Relief with natural remedies or over-the-counter treatments.	Significant weight loss.
Vocal play and babbling.	Other concerning symptoms (e.g., rash, vomiting).
Hoarseness worsens with excessive crying.	No improvement with home remedies.
Soothed by cold teething rings.	Symptoms of an ear infection.
Improved sleep with a consistent bedtime routine.	Signs of dehydration.
Gradual return to normal voice as teething subsides.	Baby stops producing wet diapers or has dry, cracked lips.

Overview of Common Teething Issues in Babies

Teething is a natural process that all babies go through, typically starting around six months of age. However, it’s not always a smooth journey, as many babies experience discomfort and other symptoms during this time. Common issues associated with teething include:

1. Swollen and tender gums: As your baby’s teeth begin to break through the gum line, it can cause inflammation and discomfort. You may notice your baby drooling more than usual, as well as trying to chew on anything within reach to alleviate the pain.
2. Increased fussiness: The discomfort of teething can make your baby irritable, leading to increased crying and difficulty sleeping. It’s essential to be patient and offer comfort to help your baby through this tough time.
3. Diarrhea and diaper rash: Some babies may experience mild diarrhea and diaper rash during teething. While the exact cause is not well-understood, it’s believed that increased drooling may contribute to these issues.
4. Low-grade fever: Some babies may develop a low-grade fever during teething. However, if the fever is above 100.4°F (38°C) or persists for more than 24 hours, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician, as this could indicate an infection.
5. Baby hoarse voice on teething: While it may not be as common as the other symptoms, some babies may develop a hoarse voice during teething. This can be due to a variety of factors, which we’ll discuss in more detail below.

The Role of Drooling and Its Impact on Hoarse Voice

One of the primary reasons for a baby hoarse voice on teething is excessive drooling. As your baby’s teeth start to emerge, they may produce more saliva than usual. This increase in drool can lead to several issues, including:

1. Skin irritation: The constant wetness around your baby’s mouth can cause chapping and irritation. To help prevent this, gently wipe your baby’s face with a soft cloth and apply a barrier cream.
2. Coughing and gagging: The excess saliva may cause your baby to cough or gag, which can irritate the throat and result in a hoarse voice.
3. Inflammation of the throat: Increased drooling can also lead to inflammation in the throat, further contributing to hoarseness.
4. Infections: Excessive saliva may create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to throat infections that can cause hoarseness.

To minimize the impact of drooling on your baby’s hoarse voice, keep their face clean and dry, and consider using a teething bib to catch excess drool.

Natural Remedies for Easing Teething Pain and Hoarse Voice

There are several natural remedies that can help alleviate teething discomfort and soothe a baby hoarse voice on teething:

1. Cold items: Chilled teething rings, cold spoons, or a damp, frozen washcloth can provide relief to your baby’s sore gums. Be sure to monitor your baby while they’re using these items to prevent choking.
2. Gentle gum massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
3. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can offer comfort and pain relief during teething, but be cautious as some babies may bite due to discomfort.
4. Amber teething necklaces: While there’s limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness, some parents find that amber teething necklaces provide relief for their babies. Be sure to choose a safe and reputable product and always supervise your baby while wearing the necklace.
5. Homeopathic remedies: Some parents turn to homeopathic remedies like chamomile or belladonna to soothe their baby’s teething pain and hoarse voice. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using these remedies, as they may not be suitable for all babies.
6. Herbal remedies: Some parents find relief using herbal remedies like clove oil or lavender oil. When using essential oils, always dilute them with a carrier oil and test a small amount on your baby’s skin to ensure they don’t have an allergic reaction.
7. Hydration: Ensuring your baby stays hydrated can help keep their throat moist and reduce the chances of developing a hoarse voice.

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Teething Discomfort

If natural remedies aren’t providing enough relief, you can consider over-the-counter treatments to help your baby during teething:

1. Pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) can help reduce inflammation and relieve teething pain. Be sure to follow the proper dosage instructions based on your baby’s age and weight.
2. Teething gels and creams: Some over-the-counter teething gels and creams contain mild numbing agents to provide temporary relief. However, it’s important to note that the FDA has advised against using products containing benzocaine for children under two years of age, as they can cause a rare but serious condition called methemoglobinemia.
3. Homeopathic teething tablets: Some parents find relief using homeopathic teething tablets. However, the FDA has issued warnings about certain brands, so be sure to consult with your pediatrician before using these products.
4. Antihistamines: In some cases, antihistamines may be recommended to help reduce inflammation and relieve a baby hoarse voice on teething. Talk to your pediatrician about the appropriate dosage and brand for your baby.

Ways to Encourage Healthy Vocal Development During Teething

As your baby navigates the teething process, it’s essential to support their vocal development:

1. Vocal play: Encourage your baby to engage in vocal play, such as babbling and making different sounds, to help maintain vocal strength and flexibility.
2. Avoid yelling and screaming: Encourage your baby to use their “inside voice” and avoid yelling or screaming, which can strain their already sensitive vocal cords.
3. Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your baby’s room can help maintain moisture in the air and prevent throat dryness, reducing the chances of developing a hoarse voice.
4. Hydration: Offer your baby water or other age-appropriate liquids regularly to keep their throat moist and support vocal health.
5. Limit exposure to irritants: Keep your baby away from cigarette smoke and other environmental irritants that can contribute to a hoarse voice.
6. Monitor for signs of infection: If your baby’s hoarse voice persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or swallowing, consult your pediatrician.

When to Seek Professional Advice for Your Baby’s Hoarse Voice

There are several instances when you should consult your pediatrician about your baby’s hoarse voice:

1. Persistent hoarseness: If your baby’s hoarse voice lasts for more than a week or two, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician.
2. Difficulty breathing or swallowing: If your baby shows signs of respiratory distress or difficulty swallowing, seek medical attention immediately.
3. High fever: If your baby has a fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C) or the fever persists for more than 24 hours, contact your pediatrician, as this could indicate an infection.
4. Other concerning symptoms: If your baby’s hoarse voice is accompanied by symptoms like lethargy, refusal to eat, or significant weight loss, it’s essential to seek professional advice.
5. No improvement with home remedies: If you’ve tried various remedies and your baby’s hoarse voice doesn’t improve, consult your pediatrician for further evaluation and guidance.

Tips for Maintaining Your Baby’s Oral Health During the Teething Process

Taking care of your baby’s oral health is crucial during teething to prevent potential complications:

1. Clean your baby’s gums: Even before your baby’s teeth emerge, gently clean their gums with a soft, damp cloth or a baby toothbrush with water.
2. Introduce toothbrushing: Once your baby’s first tooth appears, start brushing it gently with a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste.
3. Establish a dental routine: Make toothbrushing a part of your baby’s daily routine to promote good oral hygiene habits from an early age.
4. Schedule dental check-ups: The American Dental Association recommends scheduling your baby’s first dental appointment within six months of the first tooth appearing or by their first birthday.
5. Offer healthy food choices: Encourage your baby to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support healthy teeth and gums.
6. Avoid sugary foods and drinks: Limit your baby’s intake of sugary snacks and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay.
7. Keep pacifier and teething toys clean: Regularly clean and sanitize your baby’s pacifiers, teething rings, and toys to prevent the spread of germs.

Wrapping It Up

As a mother of two, I understand the challenges of dealing with a baby hoarse voice on teething. Remember to be patient and supportive during this phase, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you have concerns. Keep your baby’s oral health in check and provide comfort through natural remedies or over-the-counter treatments as needed.

Related FAQs:

Q: Can teething cause a baby to lose their voice completely?

A: While it’s not common, teething may cause a baby to temporarily lose their voice due to excessive drooling, inflammation, or throat infections. If your baby’s voice loss persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your pediatrician.

Q: How long does a hoarse voice last during teething?

A: A baby’s hoarse voice during teething typically lasts for a few days to a week. However, if the hoarseness persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your pediatrician.

Q: Are there any specific foods I should avoid giving my baby during teething?

A: During teething, avoid giving your baby hard or crunchy foods that may further irritate their already sore gums. Opt for soft, easily chewable foods that provide comfort and minimize discomfort.

Q: Can my baby develop a hoarse voice from crying too much during teething?

A: Yes, excessive crying can strain your baby’s vocal cords, leading to a hoarse voice. To soothe your baby during teething, try different remedies and provide a comforting environment to minimize crying episodes.

Q: How can I help my baby sleep better during teething?

A: To help your baby sleep better during teething, establish a consistent bedtime routine, offer comfort through gentle gum massages, provide a safe and comfortable sleeping environment, and use white noise or soft music to create a soothing atmosphere. Additionally, you may try offering a cold teething ring or administering an age-appropriate pain reliever to alleviate discomfort before bedtime.