What Does Teething Cough Sound Like? Guide From a Mother

Introduction to Teething Cough

So, your little one has started teething, and suddenly you’re noticing a new sound – a cough. No need to panic, it’s likely just a teething cough. This type of cough is pretty common when babies start growing their tiny chompers, and it’s usually harmless. But as a parent, you want to be sure, right? That’s why it’s essential to know what a teething cough sounds like and how to differentiate it from other types of coughs.

In this comprehensive guide, I will cover everything you need to know about teething coughs, including how to differentiate them from other coughs, what does teething cough sound like, their causes and triggers, and how to manage and soothe them. We’ll also discuss when to consult a pediatrician and how to prevent complications from teething coughs. Throughout the article, I will share my personal experiences as a parent, which I hope will be helpful to you. So let’s dive in!

Differentiating Teething Cough from Other Types of Coughs

As a parent, it can be challenging to differentiate between a teething cough and other types of coughs. To help you understand the differences, let’s start with a comparison table highlighting the key characteristics of teething coughs versus other coughs.

Teething Cough	Other Coughs
Usually mild and short-lived	Can be more severe and persistent
Often accompanied by other teething symptoms	May be associated with cold, flu, or respiratory infections
No fever or high temperature	Fever or high temperature may be present
Gagging or drooling may be observed	Less likely to have gagging or drooling
No signs of respiratory distress	Signs of respiratory distress may be present
Generally occurs around 6-24 months of age	Can occur at any age

Now, let’s discuss each point in detail:

1. Mild and short-lived: Teething coughs are typically mild and short in duration, often lasting just a few days. This is because the cough is primarily caused by the baby’s increased saliva production, which can lead to a tickling sensation in the throat.
2. Other teething symptoms: A teething cough is usually accompanied by other teething symptoms, such as irritability, swollen gums, and the baby’s tendency to chew on objects. If these signs are present along with a cough, it’s more likely to be a teething cough.
3. No fever or high temperature: While teething can cause mild temperature elevations, a teething cough is not usually accompanied by a fever or high temperature. If your baby has a fever, it’s more likely to be due to another cause, such as a cold or an infection.
4. Gagging or drooling: Babies experiencing teething coughs may also exhibit gagging or drooling due to the increased saliva production. This is less likely to be seen in other types of coughs.
5. No signs of respiratory distress: Teething coughs are not associated with respiratory distress, such as wheezing or difficulty breathing. If your baby exhibits these signs, consult a pediatrician, as it may indicate a more serious issue.
6. Age range: Teething coughs generally occur in babies aged 6-24 months, as this is the typical age range for the emergence of primary teeth. Other types of coughs can occur at any age.

What Does Teething Cough Sound Like?

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty – what does teething cough sound like? Picture this: your baby is happily playing with their favorite toy, and then out of the blue, you hear a mild, wet cough. It’s brief, lasting only a few seconds, and then it’s gone. It may sound like they have a little bit of mucus in their throat, but it’s not a constant or severe cough.

A teething cough is generally characterized by a mild, wet sound. This is due to the excess saliva that the baby may inadvertently swallow, which then triggers the cough reflex. Teething coughs are typically brief and intermittent, often occurring in short episodes throughout the day. The cough may be more pronounced during or after feeding, as the baby’s saliva production increases while sucking or chewing.

During my first baby’s teething phase, I noticed that her teething cough sounded different from her usual cough. It was milder, and I could hear the wetness in her throat. This made me realize that her cough was related to teething and not a cold or an infection.

Listen carefully to your baby’s cough and observe their behavior and other symptoms. Keep in mind that each baby’s teething cough may sound slightly different, and it’s important to trust your instincts as a parent. If you’re uncertain whether your baby’s cough is due to teething or something else, don’t hesitate to consult a pediatrician for further guidance.

Causes and Triggers of Teething Cough

Understanding the causes and triggers of a teething cough can help you better manage your baby’s discomfort. Here are five key factors that contribute to teething coughs:

1. Increased saliva production: Teething stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to lubricate the gums and ease the eruption of new teeth. However, this excess saliva can cause a tickling sensation in the baby’s throat, leading to a cough.
2. Swallowing saliva: Babies may inadvertently swallow excess saliva, which can irritate the throat and trigger a cough. This is particularly common during or after feeding when saliva production is further increased.
3. Chewing and sucking: As babies chew and suck on objects to soothe their teething discomfort, they may also swallow more saliva, leading to an increased likelihood of coughing.
4. Irritation from new teeth: The eruption of new teeth can cause irritation and inflammation in the baby’s gums and mouth, which may contribute to the development of a teething cough.
5. Inflammation and discomfort: Teething can cause inflammation and discomfort in the baby’s mouth, which may result in a cough as the baby attempts to soothe or alleviate their pain.

Managing and Soothing a Teething Cough

After you discovered what does teething cough sound like, and when your baby’s teething cough is getting on your nerves (and theirs), it’s time to step in and provide some much-needed relief. Here are some practical tips to help you soothe your baby’s teething cough:

1. Keep them well-hydrated: Just like a parched throat can make you cough, your little one’s teething cough can be made worse if they’re not getting enough fluids. Keep them hydrated by offering breastmilk, formula, or water throughout the day.
2. Offer teething toys: Providing age-appropriate teething toys for your baby to chew on can help alleviate gum discomfort and reduce the need to swallow excess saliva.
3. Use a cool, damp washcloth: Gently rubbing your baby’s gums with a cool, damp washcloth can help to alleviate teething pain and reduce the urge to cough.
4. Elevate your baby’s head: When your baby is resting or sleeping, elevate their head slightly to help reduce the pooling of saliva in the throat and minimize coughing.
5. Maintain a calm environment: Creating a calm, soothing environment for your baby can help reduce their stress and discomfort, which may in turn help alleviate their teething cough. Soft music, gentle rocking, or a warm bath can all provide comfort and relaxation for your baby.
6. Consider over-the-counter remedies: If your baby is experiencing significant discomfort, you can consult your pediatrician about using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, specifically formulated for infants. Always follow the recommended dosages and guidelines provided by your pediatrician.

During my baby’s teething phase, I found that offering her a variety of teething toys and using a cool, damp washcloth on her gums provided significant relief from her teething cough. Remember, each baby is different, and you may need to try several strategies to find what works best for your little one.

When to Consult a Pediatrician

You’re doing your best to help your baby through their teething journey, but sometimes you might need a little extra help from a professional. Here are a few situations when you should consult a pediatrician about your baby’s teething cough:

1. Persistent or worsening cough: If your baby’s cough persists for more than a week or worsens over time, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to rule out other potential causes, such as a cold or an infection.
2. Fever or high temperature: A fever or high temperature accompanying a cough may indicate a more serious issue that requires medical attention.
3. Signs of respiratory distress: If your baby is experiencing difficulty breathing, wheezing, or rapid breathing, seek immediate medical attention. It’s like your baby is saying, “Hey, I need some help here!” Don’t ignore these signs – it’s better to be safe than sorry.
4. Poor feeding or weight loss: If your baby is struggling to feed properly or experiencing weight loss, consult your pediatrician to ensure there are no underlying issues.
5. No improvement with home remedies: If you’ve tried various home remedies to manage and soothe your baby’s teething cough without success, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician for further guidance and recommendations.

Preventing Complications from Teething Cough

Although teething coughs are typically mild and self-limiting, you would want to take measures to prevent complications and ensure your baby’s comfort and well-being. Here are seven tips to help prevent complications from teething cough:

1. Maintain good oral hygiene: Regularly clean your baby’s gums and new teeth with a soft, wet cloth or a baby toothbrush to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation.
2. Avoid irritants: Keep your baby’s environment free from irritants, such as cigarette smoke or strong odors, which can exacerbate a teething cough.
3. Keep up with well-baby checkups: Regular visits to your pediatrician can help monitor your baby’s overall health and identify any potential issues early on.
4. Ensure proper nutrition: Providing your baby with a balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, can help support their immune system and overall health.
5. Use appropriate teething toys: Offer your baby age-appropriate, safe teething toys that are free from small parts or potential choking hazards.
6. Monitor for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, or pus around the emerging tooth, and consult your pediatrician if you suspect an issue.
7. Encourage rest and relaxation: Ensuring your baby gets plenty of rest and downtime can help support their immune system and overall well-being during the teething process.

Wrapping it Up

So what does teething cough sound like?

Teething cough is a common symptom experienced by babies during the teething process. Understanding what a teething cough sounds like, as well as its causes and triggers, can help you effectively manage and soothe your baby’s discomfort. Know when to consult a pediatrician and take preventive measures to avoid complications.

As a parent who has experienced a baby’s teething phase, I can attest to the importance of being attentive to your baby’s needs, staying informed, and providing comfort and care. Remember, every baby is different, and trust your instincts and seek professional guidance when necessary.

Teething & Cough Related FAQs

1. Can teething cause a runny nose?

Yes, teething can sometimes cause a runny nose due to the body’s increased production of saliva and mucus. However, if your baby’s runny nose is accompanied by fever, severe congestion, or difficulty breathing, consult your pediatrician to rule out other potential causes, such as a cold or an infection.

2. How long does a teething cough typically last?

A teething cough usually lasts as long as your baby is experiencing the teething process, which can vary depending on the individual child. On average, a teething cough may last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. If the cough persists for more than a week or worsens over time, consult your pediatrician.

3. What age do babies typically start teething?

Babies typically start teething between the ages of 4 to 7 months. However, some babies may begin teething earlier or later than this timeframe. Keep an eye out for early teething signs, such as drooling, irritability, or gum swelling.

4. Can teething affect my baby’s sleep?

Teething can indeed affect a baby’s sleep due to the discomfort and pain they may experience. You can help alleviate your baby’s teething pain by offering teething toys, using a cool damp washcloth, or consulting your pediatrician about over-the-counter pain relievers specifically formulated for infants.

5. How many teeth will my baby get during the teething process?

By the age of 3, most children will have a full set of 20 primary teeth. The teething process varies for each child, with some experiencing more intense symptoms than others. Monitor your baby’s dental development and consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.