Got a teething infant with a fever or diarrhea? Your little one may actually be ill.

The most common signs of teething are drooling (and a mouth rash from that drooling), tender gums and irritability. 

Despite what many people think, teething does not cause significant fever or diarrhea, diaper rash, runny nose or full-on crying, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Those are signs of illness and that your baby needs to be seen by a healthcare provider.

While fever is reported in about 25% of teething children, researchers say the temperature rise typically doesn't meet the definition of fever (greater than 100 degrees F).

Diarrhea has been found in about 20% of teething children, but researchers say it typically peaks with the eruption of incisors (the first teeth) and seems to decrease with age. 

Bottom line: if your baby has a temp higher than 100 degrees F, signs of diarrhea in more than 2 bowel movements, or other symptoms of illness, check with your healthcare provider.

See also ...

•  Proven and false symptoms of teething

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.

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