Most babies begin teething at 4 to 7 months of age, according to BabyCenter.com. Teething can cause symptoms that resemble those of the common cold. Many experts disagree as to whether teething is responsible for certain symptoms, or if those symptoms are caused by an underlying cold that is present at the time teeth emerge, according to BabyCenter.com.
Drooling
Drooling can begin long before a tooth begins to poke through the gums. A facial rash may develop because the prolonged moisture irritates the skin, according to BabyCenter.com. Drooling caused by teething is similar to the salivating that happens when a toddler struggles to breathe through his nose during a cold. Excessive drooling can also lead to choking or coughing, according to AskDrSears.com.
Mood Changes
Like a cold, teething can cause mood changes in a child, including irritability and fussiness. A child may also have a diminished appetite and trouble sleeping.
Ear Pulling
Gums, ears and cheeks share nerve pathways, according to WhatToExpect.com. When the gums ache, the result can be discomfort in any of these areas and can lead a child to rub her cheeks or pull her ears. These symptoms can resemble those of a cold or ear infection.
Fever
Gum inflammation from teething can cause the body temperature to rise, says Dr. William Sears. It is most often a low-grade fever at or below 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Seek medical attention for a child who exhibits other signs of illness, especially a fever that is high or persists, even if teething is suspected as the underlying cause. Typically, medical treatment is necessary for a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees F in children under 3 months, 101 degrees F in children between 3 and 6 months, or 103 degrees F in children over 6 months, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
