How to Treat Runny Nose From Teething: Home Remedies & Medications

Teething typically begins around 6 months of age, although it can occur as early as 4 months or as late as 12 months. It’s a natural process in which your baby’s primary teeth start to emerge through the gums. While this is an important milestone, it can be quite uncomfortable for your little one. The increased saliva production, inflammation, and potential immune system changes during teething can sometimes lead to a runny nose. Although not every child experiences a runny nose during teething, it’s a common symptom that many parents deal with.

In this article, I will share insights on understanding the connection between teething and a runny nose, home remedies to treat a runny nose from teething, over-the-counter medications and treatments, when to consult a pediatrician, and preventive measures to reduce teething discomfort. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to help your baby through this uncomfortable phase and ensure they’re as comfortable as possible.

Understanding the connection between teething and a runny nose

Teething can cause a runny nose for several reasons. First, the increased saliva production associated with teething can lead to a runny nose. This excess saliva can make its way into the nasal cavity and cause nasal congestion. Second, inflammation can occur during teething, affecting the nasal passages and sinuses. This inflammation can trigger a runny nose, as the body attempts to flush out the irritants.

The immune system also may be affected during teething, making a child more susceptible to catching a cold or experiencing allergy symptoms. According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, it’s possible that the stress from teething may temporarily weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. It’s important to recognize that while not every child will experience a runny nose during teething, it is a common symptom.

When my baby was teething, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Why on earth does teething cause a runny nose?” It turns out, during teething, your baby’s body may produce more saliva, and their little immune system could be working overtime. The excess saliva and inflammation can lead to a runny nose. It’s a wild ride, but don’t worry, we’re in this together.

How to Treat Runny Nose From Teething

Navigating the challenges of teething can be difficult, especially when your little one is experiencing a runny nose. Fortunately, there are various home remedies & OTC treatments available to provide relief and comfort, ensuring your baby can breathe easier and feel better.

10 Home remedies for treating runny nose from teething

Saline nasal drops

Saline nasal drops are a simple and effective solution made from salt and water. They are safe for babies and can help to clear a congested nose. Saline drops help to thin and loosen mucus, making it easier for your baby to breathe through their nose.

❖ Lay your baby down with their head tilted back slightly. Place a few drops of saline solution in each nostril, wait for a moment, and then use a bulb syringe to gently suction out the mucus.

Warm steam

Warm steam helps to moisten the nasal passages, which can alleviate congestion.The warm steam can soothe irritated nasal passages and help to break up mucus, providing relief for your baby’s runny nose.

❖ Run a hot shower with the bathroom door closed to create a steamy environment. Sit in the bathroom with your baby for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to breathe in the warm, moist air.

Hydration

Ensuring your baby stays well-hydrated is important for overall health and can also help alleviate a runny nose. Adequate hydration helps to thin mucus, making it easier for your baby to breathe and expel the excess fluid.

❖ Offer your baby breast milk or formula more frequently, or provide small amounts of water if they are over six months old. 

Warm compress

A warm compress is a simple and effective way to help soothe your baby’s congested nasal passages. The warmth from the compress can help to relieve inflammation and break up mucus.

❖ Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and gently place it over your baby’s nose and cheeks for a few minutes. Be cautious not to apply excessive heat and always test the temperature of the compress on your inner wrist before using it on your baby.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves using essential oils to help alleviate symptoms such as congestion and runny noses. Certain essential oils, like eucalyptus or lavender, have been known to help open up the airways and provide relief from congestion.

❖ Use a diffuser to disperse the essential oils into the air, or add a few drops to a warm bath for your baby. Always use age-appropriate essential oils and dilute them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Talk with a pediatrician before using essential oils on your baby.

Chicken soup

Chicken soup is a popular home remedy for colds and congestion, and can also help to alleviate a baby’s runny nose. The warmth and steam from the soup can help to break up mucus, while the nutrients in the soup can help support your baby’s immune system.

❖ Offer your baby warm, age-appropriate chicken soup, ensuring it is not too hot. For younger babies, you can mix a small amount of chicken broth with their formula or breast milk.

Gentle massage

Massaging your baby’s face and sinus areas can help to alleviate congestion and provide comfort. Gentle massage can help to stimulate the flow of mucus, making it easier for your baby to breathe.

❖ With clean hands, gently massage your baby’s forehead, cheeks, and around the nose using circular motions. Apply gentle pressure and focus on the areas where congestion may be present.

Herbal tea

Certain herbal teas, like chamomile or fennel, can help to soothe a congested baby. The warmth and steam from the tea can help to break up mucus, while the herbs can provide soothing relief.

❖ Brew a cup of age-appropriate, caffeine-free herbal tea and allow it to cool to a safe temperature. Offer small sips of the tea to your baby, or mix it with their formula or breast milk. 

Nasal suctioning

Nasal suctioning involves using a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator to remove mucus from your baby’s nose. This provides relief by clearing your baby’s airways, making it easier for them to breathe.

❖ Lay your baby down with their head tilted back slightly. Squeeze the bulb syringe or nasal aspirator to create a vacuum, and gently insert the tip into your baby’s nostril. Release the pressure on the bulb to suction out the mucus. Repeat on the other nostril, and always clean the device thoroughly after each use.

Remember to consult with your pediatrician for specific guidelines based on your baby’s age and needs.

Over-the-counter medications and treatments

There are a bunch of over-the-counter medications that may help relieve a runny nose in older infants and children. While you are educating yourself on how to treat runny nose from teething, make sure to consult with a pediatrician or pharmacist before using any over-the-counter medications, especially for young infants. 

1. Children’s nasal decongestants These medications can help reduce nasal congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages. Examples include children’s versions of oxymetazoline and phenylephrine. Always follow the age-appropriate dosage instructions and never use these medications for more than the recommended duration.
2. Antihistamines Antihistamines, such as children’s versions of diphenhydramine and cetirizine, can help relieve a runny nose caused by allergies. These medications work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions.
3. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with teething.
4. Guaifenesin This is an expectorant that helps thin mucus, making it easier for your child to cough up or blow their nose. Be sure to follow the age-appropriate dosage instructions before use.
5. Vapor rubs Some vapor rubs, specifically formulated for babies, can help provide relief from a runny nose and congestion. These products usually contain natural ingredients like eucalyptus, camphor, and menthol. Apply a small amount to your baby’s chest, back, or the soles of their feet, as per the product’s instructions. Make sure to use a vapor rub specifically designed for babies and young children, as adult versions can be too strong.
6. Homeopathic remedies Some parents find relief for their teething babies with homeopathic remedies, such as chamomilla or belladonna. 

When to consult a pediatrician

While a runny nose is a common symptom during teething, there are times when you want to consult a pediatrician.

1. Persistent or worsening runny nose If your baby’s runny nose lasts longer than 10 days or worsens over time, it may be a sign of a bacterial infection or another underlying issue.
2. Fever A fever, especially one above 100.4°F (38°C), can indicate an infection that requires medical attention. Teething itself should not cause a high fever.
3. Difficulty breathing If your baby is struggling to breathe or is breathing rapidly, seek medical attention immediately. This could be a sign of a respiratory infection or other serious condition.
4. Unusual irritability If your baby is unusually irritable, inconsolable, or has difficulty sleeping, it could be a sign of an ear infection or another issue that requires medical attention.
5. Poor appetite A decreased appetite could indicate that your baby is in pain or experiencing an infection, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
6. Green or yellow nasal discharge Thick, green, or yellow nasal discharge may be a sign of a bacterial infection and warrants a visit to the pediatrician.
7. Rash or skin irritation A rash or skin irritation around your baby’s mouth or nose could be a sign of an allergy or infection that requires medical attention.

Be aware of other symptoms that might suggest an underlying issue not related to teething, like a sinus infection or allergies. 

Preventive measures to reduce teething discomfort

Teething can be a real pain in the gums, and runny noses are no picnic either. But don’t worry, there are preventive measures that you can take to reduce teething discomfort and keep that pesky runny nose at bay. Let’s explore some helpful tips to make life a bit easier for you and your little one.

1. Massage the gums Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can help alleviate teething pain and reduce inflammation.
2. Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen As advised by a pediatrician, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage your baby’s teething pain.
3. Consistent sleep schedule Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help your baby rest better during teething, as fatigue can exacerbate their discomfort.
4. Soothing bedtime routine Establishing a calming bedtime routine, such as a warm bath, gentle massage, or quiet storytime, can help your baby relax and sleep better during teething.
5. Keep the environment clean Regularly clean your baby’s toys, pacifiers, and teething items to reduce the risk of infection and keep their environment free of allergens.

8. Avoid allergenic foods If your baby has started solids, avoid introducing common allergenic foods during teething, as this could increase the likelihood of a runny nose due to an allergic reaction.
9. Monitor air quality Maintaining clean and healthy indoor air quality can help reduce the chances of your baby experiencing a runny nose. Regularly clean and vacuum your home, and consider using an air purifier to remove allergens and pollutants.
10. Offer extra comfort and reassurance Teething can be a difficult time for both babies and parents. Providing extra cuddles, comfort, and reassurance can help your baby feel more secure and better able to cope with the discomfort of teething.

Wrapping it Up

To wrap it up with the answer to the question how to treat runny nose from teething – a runny nose is a common symptom during teething, but it can also be caused by other factors like infections, allergies, or colds. Understand the connection between teething and a runny nose, and you can better identify and address your baby’s needs.

I found that using a humidifier and saline drops helped my baby’s runny nose when she was teething, but every child is different, so be prepared to try different remedies until you find the one that works best for your baby.

There are numerous home remedies and over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate your baby’s runny nose, but it’s important to chat with your pediatrician or pharmacist before using any medications, especially for young infants.