From the Guidelines
Excessive crying in a 5-month-old infant undergoing teething can be normal, but it is crucial to distinguish between normal teething pain and other potential issues that may require medical attention. Teething typically causes discomfort and pain as the teeth push through the gums, leading to increased fussiness and crying 1. While some crying is expected, excessive crying that lasts for hours without relief, prevents sleep, or cannot be soothed with comfort measures may indicate a problem requiring medical attention.
To help manage teething pain, you can offer a clean, chilled (not frozen) teething ring, gently massage your baby's gums with a clean finger, or use over-the-counter pain relievers like infant acetaminophen (Tylenol) at the appropriate dose for your baby's weight (typically 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours) 1. Avoid teething gels containing benzocaine as they can cause rare but serious side effects. Keep track of crying patterns - if your baby cries inconsolably for more than 3 hours per day for 3 or more days per week, consult your pediatrician as this could indicate colic or another issue 1.
Some key factors to consider when assessing a crying infant include:
- The duration and frequency of crying
- The presence of other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
- The infant's overall demeanor and behavior
- Any changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- The presence of any underlying medical conditions
It is also essential to recognize that crying can be a trigger for child abuse, and pediatricians play a critical role in preventing child maltreatment by identifying and addressing factors that may make a child more vulnerable to maltreatment 1. Factors that place a child at risk for child maltreatment include child characteristics such as emotional/behavioral difficulties, chronic illness, or physical disabilities, as well as parent characteristics such as low self-esteem, poor impulse control, or substance abuse. Environmental factors such as social isolation, poverty, and unemployment can also contribute to the risk of child maltreatment.
In terms of managing teething pain, the most recent and highest quality study recommends a multimodal approach that includes non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions 1. Non-pharmacologic interventions such as offering a clean, chilled teething ring or gently massaging the baby's gums can be effective in reducing pain and discomfort. Pharmacologic interventions such as infant acetaminophen can also be used, but it is essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a pediatrician before administering any medication.
Overall, while excessive crying in a 5-month-old infant undergoing teething can be normal, it is crucial to monitor the infant's behavior and overall health, and to consult with a pediatrician if there are any concerns about the infant's crying or overall well-being.
From the Research
Teething and Crying in Infants
- Teething is a normal process in infants, typically starting at six months, and can be accompanied by symptoms such as crying, drooling, and feeding difficulties 2.
- Some studies suggest that babies can experience teething differently, with some showing signs of distress, which may include excessive crying 3.
- Parents often attribute various symptoms to teething, including fever, pain, irritability, and sleep disturbance, although there is little evidence to support these attributions 4.
Excessive Crying in Infants
- Excessive crying is a common presenting complaint in infants and can be a difficult diagnostic dilemma, potentially representing a serious or life-threatening condition 5.
- However, in most cases, excessive crying is benign and self-limiting, and an underlying organic cause is found in less than 5% of infants 6.
- Excessive crying can be associated with parental exhaustion and stress, and treatment often focuses on helping parents manage the situation rather than curing the underlying cause 6.
Teething and Crying in 5-Month-Old Infants
- While the exact age of teething onset can vary, some infants may start teething as early as five months, which could potentially lead to excessive crying 2, 3.
- It is essential to note that excessive crying can have various causes, and teething is just one possible explanation 5, 6.
- If a 5-month-old infant is experiencing excessive crying, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions that may require medical attention 5, 6.