Teething Fever vs. Cold Fever in Infants: How to Tell the Difference and What Parents Should Know
One of the most common concerns among parents of infants is distinguishing between a fever caused by teething and one triggered by a cold. While both conditions can lead to elevated body temperature, understanding the underlying causes and accompanying symptoms is crucial for proper care and peace of mind.
Understanding Teething Fever
Teething typically begins around 4 to 6 months of age, though this can vary from child to child. During this developmental stage, many babies experience what's commonly referred to as a "teething fever." This low-grade fever usually ranges between 99°F (37.2°C) and 100.4°F (38°C) and tends to come and go over a few days.
Key signs of teething include:
- Increased drooling
- Irritability or fussiness
- Mild gum swelling or redness
- A tendency to chew on fingers, toys, or anything within reach
- Slight loss of appetite
It's important to note that while teething may cause discomfort and a mild rise in temperature, it does not lead to high fevers or systemic illness. If your baby has a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C), it's less likely due to teething alone.
Recognizing Fever Due to a Cold
A cold, medically known as an acute upper respiratory infection, is typically caused by viruses such as rhinovirus. Unlike teething, a cold affects the respiratory system and often comes with more pronounced symptoms beyond just a fever.
Common Symptoms of a Cold in Babies
In addition to fever, infants with a cold may exhibit:
- Nasal congestion or a runny nose with clear or thick mucus
- Sneezing
- Coughing, which may worsen at night
- Reduced feeding due to difficulty breathing while nursing or bottle-feeding
- Mild fatigue or decreased activity levels
The fever associated with a cold can sometimes be higher than that seen during teething—often reaching 101°F (38.3°C) or more—and may last several days. Unlike teething, cold symptoms tend to develop progressively and affect multiple areas of the body.
Key Differences Between Teething and Cold-Related Fevers
While both conditions can cause a fever, the context and accompanying symptoms are what set them apart:
Teething-related fever: Mild, short-lived, and accompanied primarily by oral discomfort and behavioral changes such as increased biting or irritability. There are no respiratory symptoms like cough or nasal discharge.
Cold-related fever: Often higher in intensity, lasts longer, and is paired with clear signs of infection in the nose, throat, or lungs. The presence of mucus, coughing, or wheezing strongly suggests a viral infection rather than teething.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
Parents should seek medical advice if their infant:
- Has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C) and is under 3 months old
- Shows signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, dry mouth)
- Is unusually lethargic or difficult to wake
- Develops a rash, ear pulling, or labored breathing
- Has a fever lasting more than 3 days
Even if symptoms seem mild, persistent fever without a clear cause warrants professional evaluation to rule out more serious infections.
Managing Discomfort at Home
For teething babies, try offering chilled (not frozen) teething rings, gently massaging the gums with a clean finger, or using age-appropriate pain relief as recommended by a doctor.
For cold symptoms, ensure your baby stays hydrated, use a humidifier to ease congestion, and consider saline drops with a bulb syringe to clear nasal passages. Avoid over-the-counter medications unless advised by a healthcare provider.
In summary, while both teething and colds can cause fever in infants, the presence of respiratory symptoms is a strong indicator of a cold. Teething fever is generally mild and self-limiting, whereas colds involve broader systemic signs. By paying close attention to symptom patterns, parents can respond appropriately and know when it's time to seek help.