### How to Tell if Your Baby is Teething or Sick When your baby starts teething, it can be a challenging time. Here are some common signs of teething and how to differentiate them from symptoms of illness: **Signs of Teething:** - **Crankiness:** Your baby may be fussier than usual and want to be held or comforted more often. - **Drooling:** Expect a lot of drooling. This can sometimes cause a rash on their chin, cheeks, and neck. - **Gnawing on Things:** Your baby may chew on toys or other objects to relieve gum irritation. - **Less Interest in Solids:** If your baby has started on solid foods, they might show less interest in them during teething. - **Slight Temperature Increase:** Teething may slightly raise your baby's temperature but won't cause a fever (100.4°F or higher). **Signs of Illness:** - **High Fever:** A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or above likely indicates an infection. - **Severe Fussiness:** If your baby is so fussy that they can't be comforted, it may be more than just teething. - **No Appetite for Solids or Liquids:** If your baby refuses both solids and liquids, consult your pediatrician. - **Runny Nose, Cough, Vomiting, or Diarrhea:** These symptoms are not caused by teething and could indicate an illness. - **Rash Beyond the Face:** A rash that spreads beyond the face could be a sign of illness. - **Symptoms Lasting More Than a Few Days:** If symptoms persist for several days without a new tooth appearing, consult your doctor. **How to Soothe a Teething Baby:** - **Pressure on Gums:** Massage their gums with a clean finger or give them a rubber teething ring. - **Cool Objects:** Use a cool (not frozen) teething ring or a wet washcloth from the fridge. - **Avoid Gels and Tablets:** These can be harmful and are not recommended. - **Pain Relief:** For babies over 6 months, consult your doctor about using ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Teething can be tough, but it's just a phase. Keep your baby comfortable and consult your doctor if you have concerns.